Bioceramic compositions and biomodulatory uses thereof

Abstract

To provide articles, compositions, systems, and methods of using and preparing bioceramic compositions, as well as to provide bioceramic compositions.SOLUTION: The present invention provides an article that includes a composition containing a bioceramic, wherein the bioceramic, when heated or exposed to heat, provides a biomodulatory or physiological effect when the article is applied to a subject.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 115,567, filed February 12, 2015, U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 064,939, filed October 16, 2014, U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 062,686, filed October 10, 2014, U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 018,085, filed June 27, 2014, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61 / 988,837, filed May 5, 2014, which are incorporated by reference in their entireties. [Background technology]

[0002] Infrared radiation has wavelengths ranging from 0.7 to 1000 microns, just above visible light on the electromagnetic spectrum. Infrared radiation has powerful physical properties and great thermal activity. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0003] The natural resonant frequency range of water and living organisms, including man, is within the infrared range. For example, the wavelength range of 6-18 micrometers is beneficial to the human body due to its revitalizing and energizing effects on the human body. In fact, human skin emits infrared waves at 9.36 micrometers, which is very close to the resonant frequency of water molecules - which makes sense since our bodies are about 70% water. Infrared waves are considered a safe and beneficial energy source for humans. The inventors have identified the beneficial properties of the innovative bioceramic composition and its application as described herein.

[0004] As described herein, bioceramics include ceramics that radiate beneficial infrared waves to living organisms. The subject matter described herein utilizes the beneficial effects of infrared radiation. The methods, products, systems, and compositions described herein employ unique formulations of bioceramic materials, which are ultrafine mineral particles that emit far infrared energy when heated by a living organism, such as the human body. The bioceramic materials described herein are persistent polycrystalline compounds that are highly biocompatible due to their inertness in aqueous conditions and are safe for human interaction and application. The inventors have invented many biomodifying or physiological applications of such bioceramic formulations, including, but not limited to, regulating cellular metabolism, inducing analgesia, relaxing muscles, and modulating inflammation and oxidative stress.

[0005] According to the laws of thermodynamics, any two bodies in contact will reach thermal equilibrium through a direct, microscopic exchange of kinetic energy in the form of electromagnetic radiation generated by the thermal motion of charged particles in the matter. Thus, when the human body is in contact with the bioceramic materials, products, and compositions described herein, an exchange of thermal radiation, specifically far-infrared radiation, takes place. Due to the unique properties of the minerals and oxides encompassed by the subject matter described herein, i.e., highly refractory minerals, this radiation is enhanced in the far-infrared spectrum, which has many biomodifying or physiological effects. The inventors of the present application have unexpectedly discovered many advantages of using the bioceramic materials described herein to complement or serve as the basis for therapeutic approaches to the living body.

[0006] The subject matter described herein provides a non-invasive, safe, convenient, and effective method to bring about the positive effects of far-infrared therapy to a subject. For example, in some embodiments, a patient carries, wears, and / or uses a bioceramic composition, for example, when applied to an article such as a shirt, at home and / or while performing daily activities to extend the effects of a treatment the patient receives in a clinic, or to improve the patient's condition during or after exercise. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The subject matter described herein, including products, compositions, methods, devices, and systems, features a composition that includes a bioceramic that, when heated or exposed to heat, such as human body warmth, provides a biomodifying, physiological effect when the product is applied to a subject. In some embodiments, the product is an article of clothing, such as a shirt.

[0008] Another feature of the subject matter described herein is a bioceramic composition. For example, in one embodiment, the composition includes: (a) about 20 wt% to about 80 wt% kaolinite (Al2Si2O5(OH)4); (b) about 1 wt% to about 30 wt% tourmaline; (c) about 1 wt% to about 40 wt% aluminum oxide (Al2O3); (d) about 1 wt% to about 40 wt% silicon dioxide (SiO2); and (e) about 1 wt% to about 20 wt% zirconium oxide (ZrO2); the amounts being by weight of the total bioceramic composition. In another embodiment, the composition comprises: (a) about 40 wt.% to about 60 wt.% kaolinite (Al2Si2O5(OH)4); (b) about 5 wt.% to about 15 wt.% tourmaline; (c) about 15 wt.% to about 25 wt.% aluminum oxide (Al2O3); (d) about 10 wt.% to about 20 wt.% silicon dioxide (SiO2); and (e) about 1 wt.% to about 20 wt.% zirconium oxide (ZrO2); the amounts being by weight of the total bioceramic composition. In yet another embodiment, a bioceramic composition is provided that includes: (a) about 50 wt.% kaolinite (Al2Si2O5(OH)4); (b) about 10 wt.% tourmaline; (c) about 18 wt.% aluminum oxide (Al2O3); (d) about 14 wt.% silicon dioxide (SiO2); and (e) about 8 wt.% zirconium oxide (ZrO2), the amounts being based on the total weight of the bioceramic composition. In certain of these embodiments, the composition includes tourmaline, the tourmaline being NaFe 2+ 3Al6Si6O 18Contains (BO3)3(OH)3OH.

[0009] A further feature of the subject matter described herein is the provision of biomodifying or physiological effects including: modulation of pain, increased muscle endurance, modulation of the cardiopulmonary system, modulation of cellular metabolism, analgesia, antioxidant effects, anti-fibromyalgia effects, reduced inflammation, reduced oxidative stress, modulation of cytokine levels, modulation of blood circulation, reduced intolerance to cold and hot environments, reduced symptoms of arthritis or vascular disease, increased skin perfusion, reduced heart rate, reduced blood pressure, reduced body measurements, reduced weight, or cosmetic effects such as reduced cellulite in a subject.

[0010] Yet another feature of the subject matter described herein is a non-invasive method of producing a biomodifying or physiological effect in or on a subject comprising contacting the skin of the subject with a product comprising a bioceramic, the bioceramic composition, when heated or exposed to heat, produces far infrared thermal radiation and a biomodifying or physiological effect on the subject in a non-invasive manner.

[0011] Another feature of the subject matter described herein is a method of preparing an article comprising: (a) preparing a bioceramic solution; and (b) applying the solution to an article; the solution, when applied to the article, contains about 20 wt % to about 80 wt % kaolinite (Al2SiO5(OH)4); about 1 wt % to about 30 wt % tourmaline; about 1 wt % to about 40 wt % aluminum oxide (Al2O3); about 1 wt % to about 40 wt % silicon dioxide (SiO2); and about 1 wt % to about 20 wt % zirconium oxide (ZrO2), the amounts being based on the total weight of the bioceramic composition.

[0012] A further feature of the subject matter described herein is a method of preparing a product comprising: (a) preparing a bioceramic solution; and (b) applying the solution onto a product; the bioceramic, when heated or exposed to heat, provides a biomodifying or physiological effect when the product is applied to a subject. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0013] The novel and innovative features of the invention are set forth with particularity in the appended claims. The features and advantages of the present invention will be better understood by reference to the following detailed description setting forth specific embodiments in which the principles of the invention are employed, and the accompanying drawings in which this provisional patent application is provided in the Examples section below.

[0014] [Figure 1] 1 shows a non-limiting example of a shirt comprising a bioceramic of the present disclosure. [Diagram 2] 1 shows non-limiting examples of shirts and pads that include bioceramics of the present disclosure. [Diagram 3] 1 is a graph showing a non-limiting example of the effect of bioceramics of the present disclosure on flexibility. [Figure 4] 1 is a graph showing a non-limiting example of the effect of bioceramics of the present disclosure on lung capacity. [Diagram 5] 1 is a graph showing a non-limiting example of the effect of bioceramics of the present disclosure on peak expiratory flow (PEF). [Figure 6] 1 shows a non-limiting example of the effect of bioceramics of the present disclosure on muscle endurance. [Figure 7] 1 shows a non-limiting example of the effect of bioceramics of the present disclosure on cardiopulmonary endurance. [Figure 8] 1 illustrates a non-limiting example of the effect of bioceramic paint on CFA-induced mechanical hypersensitivity. [Figure 9] 1 shows a non-limiting example of a bioceramic paint of the present disclosure. [Figure 10] 1 shows a non-limiting example of a pad comprising a bioceramic of the present disclosure. [Figure 11] 1 shows a non-limiting example of a bracelet comprising a bioceramic of the present disclosure. [Figure 12]1 is a graph showing a non-limiting example of a self-reported reduction in overall pain levels of greater than 7.5% of human subjects treated with a garment of the present disclosure. [Figure 13] 1 is a graph showing a non-limiting example of a self-reported improvement in greater than 46% of overall health levels in human subjects treated with a garment of the present disclosure. [Figure 14] 1 is a graph showing a non-limiting example of a self-reported reduction in overall fatigue levels of greater than 25% of human subjects treated with a garment of the present disclosure. [Figure 15] 1 is a graph showing a non-limiting example of a self-reported improvement in overall sleep quality of greater than 8.5% of human subjects treated with a garment of the present disclosure. [Figure 16] 1 is a graph showing a non-limiting example of a self-reported improvement of greater than 7% overall performance level in human subjects treated with a garment of the present disclosure. [Figure 17] 1 shows a non-limiting example of the absolute infrared emissivity of a plain weave fabric (without bioceramic). [Figure 18] 1 shows a non-limiting example of the absolute infrared emissivity of a fabric containing 30% bioceramics of the present disclosure. [Figure 19] 1 shows a non-limiting example of the absolute infrared emissivity of a fabric containing 50% bioceramics of the present disclosure. [Figure 20] 1 is a non-limiting example of a graph illustrating that exposure to pads with higher bioceramic concentrations and longer exposure periods (both embodiments of the present disclosure) induced longer lasting results. [Figure 21] 1 is a non-limiting graph showing the effect of adding bioceramics of the present disclosure to water treatment in a hydroponic system. [Figure 22] 1 is a non-limiting example of a graph showing lower conductivity of water treated with bioceramics of the present disclosure presented on days 16-20 compared to a control group (water only). [Figure 23] 1 is a non-limiting example of photographs showing the effectiveness of bioceramics of the present disclosure in growing organic produce. [Figure 24] 1 is a graph showing a non-limiting example of the analgesic effect of a far-infrared emitting bioceramic (cFIR) of the present disclosure versus different formulations in a CFA mouse model of induced mechanical hypersensitivity. [Diagram 25] 1A-1C show non-limiting examples of infrared transmission of separate bioceramic compositions of the present disclosure. A shows the infrared transmission of a bioceramic composition described herein that includes 18% aluminum oxide, 14% silicon dioxide, 50% kaolinite, 8% zirconium oxide, and 10% tourmaline. B shows the infrared transmission of a bioceramic composition described herein that includes 20% aluminum, 3% titanium, 11% magnesium oxide, 6% iron trioxide, and 60% silica. [Figure 26] 1 is a graph showing the effect of a bioceramic garment emitting far infrared radiation on functional exercise capacity based on heart rate and performance in a human subject suffering from fibromyalgia who subsequently underwent a hydrotherapy regimen. [Figure 27-1] We demonstrate that hydrotherapy in combination with the use of a control garment did not affect the subjects' balance, and that the use of bioceramics emitting far-infrared radiation statistically reduced latero-lateral vibrations. [Figure 27-2] We demonstrate that hydrotherapy in combination with the use of a control garment did not affect the subjects' balance, and that the use of bioceramics emitting far-infrared radiation statistically reduced latero-lateral vibrations. [Figure 28] 1 is a graph showing the effect on the overall perceived pain level of human subjects suffering from fibromyalgia treated with a bioceramic garment emitting far-infrared radiation or a sham garment. [Figure 29-1] FIG. 1 shows the results of the fibromyalgia impact questionnaire (FIQ) (Panel A), the McGill pain questionnaire (Panel B), and the McGill descriptors index (Panel C). [Figure 29-2]FIG. 1 shows the results of the fibromyalgia impact questionnaire (FIQ) (Panel A), the McGill pain questionnaire (Panel B), and the McGill descriptors index (Panel C). [Diagram 30] 1 is an organizational flow chart of the study relating to the present disclosure. [Diagram 31] 1 is a graph illustrating the effect of a bioceramic garment emitting far infrared radiation on postural control. [Diagram 32] 1 is a graph showing the effect of a bioceramic garment emitting far-infrared radiation on flexibility and grip strength in Pilates practitioners. [Diagram 33] 1 is a graph showing the effect of a bioceramic garment emitting far-infrared rays on stabilometry (lateral direction) of a Pilates practitioner. [Diagram 34] 1 is a graph showing the effect of bioceramic clothing that emits far-infrared rays on a Pilates practitioner's center of gravity sway test (before and after). [Diagram 35] The effect of a bioceramic garment emitting far-infrared radiation on heart rate variability (HRV) in Pilates practitioners is shown. [Diagram 36] The results of a far-infrared emitting bioceramic garment on daily dysfunction (Panel A), sleep quality (Panel B), and sleep efficiency (Panel C) are shown. [Figure 37] The results of the far-infrared emitting bioceramic garment on sleep duration (Panel A), sleep disturbance (Panel B), and PQSI (Panel C) are shown. [Figure 38] FIG. 1 shows the results of the London Chest Activity of Daily Living (LCADL) questionnaire in subjects with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). [Figure 39] 1 shows the results of a performance-based functional exercise capacity test in subjects with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). [Diagram 40] FIG. 1 shows the results of a heart rate variability test (HRV) (frequency domain) in a subject suffering from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) before and after treatment with a bioceramic. [Diagram 41] FIG. 1 shows the results of a heart rate variability test (HRV) (time domain) in a subject suffering from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) before and after treatment with a bioceramic. [Diagram 42] Results are presented regarding early VO2 consumption in young baseball players practicing in a bioceramic T-shirt or a fake T-shirt. [Diagram 43] Results are presented regarding early VO2Max in young baseball players practicing in either a bioceramic t-shirt or a fake t-shirt. [Diagram 44] Figure 1 shows aerobic threshold results for young baseball players practicing in a bioceramic T-shirt or a fake T-shirt. [Diagram 45] Anaerobic threshold results of young baseball players practicing in a bioceramic T-shirt or a fake T-shirt are shown. [Diagram 46] Heart rate recovery of young baseball players practicing in a bioceramic t-shirt or a fake t-shirt. [Figure 47A] The results of a bioceramic garment emitting far-infrared radiation on sleep duration (Panel A), sleep disorders (Panel B), and diurnal dysfunction (Panel C) in young baseball players are shown. [Figure 47B] The results of a bioceramic garment emitting far-infrared radiation on sleepiness (Panel A), sleep latency (Panel B), and daily impairment as measured by the PQSI (Panel C) in young baseball players are shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0015] As used in this document, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural references unless expressly stated otherwise. Unless otherwise specified, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art. As used herein, the term "comprising" means "including, but not limited to."

[0016] Without being bound by theory, the inventors have discovered that the biological effects of bioceramics are based on the fact that the infrared frequency range is the natural resonant frequency range of water and living organisms. Because living organisms contain a significant portion of water, the resonant frequency of water molecules emitted from the bioceramics described herein can activate water and affect living organisms, including humans, including the treatment of disease and biological complications and pathways.

[0017] The bioceramics of the present disclosure radiate far-infrared energy to or from the subject's body. When the bioceramics radiate energy to the subject's body, they provide concentrated radiant energy to cells by reflecting far-infrared energy or far-infrared radiation of body heat to the subject's joints, muscles, and tissues. The far-infrared energy penetrates into the cells and provides biomodifying or physiological effects, such as anti-inflammatory effects, analgesic effects, and other biomodifying or physiological effects. When the bioceramics radiate energy away from the subject's body, they prevent the far-infrared energy from penetrating the subject's skin, thereby providing a cooling effect.

[0018] Bioceramic Compositions Aspects of the products, compositions, methods, devices, and systems described herein are bioceramic compositions that provide a biomodifying or physiological effect in a particular application. For example, in some embodiments, bioceramic compositions are provided that, when heated or exposed to heat, provide a biomodifying or physiological effect when the product is applied to a subject. In one embodiment, the bioceramic is a. about 20 wt% to about 80 wt% kaolinite (Al2Si2O5(OH)4); b. about 1 wt.% to about 30 wt.% tourmaline; c. about 1 wt % to about 40 wt % aluminum oxide (Al2O3); d. about 1 wt % to about 40 wt % silicon dioxide (SiO2); and e. about 1 wt % to about 20 wt % zirconium oxide (ZrO2); The amount is based on the total weight of the bioceramic composition.

[0019] In further or additional embodiments, bioceramic compositions are provided that, when heated or exposed to heat, provide a biomodifying or physiological effect when the product is applied to a subject, including: a. about 40 wt% to about 60 wt% kaolinite (Al2Si2O5(OH)4); b. about 5 wt.% to about 15 wt.% tourmaline; c. about 15% to about 25% by weight aluminum oxide (Al2O3); d. about 10 wt % to about 20 wt % silicon dioxide (SiO2); and e. about 1 wt % to about 20 wt % zirconium oxide (ZrO2); The amount is based on the total weight of the bioceramic composition. In some embodiments, the bioceramic compositions include in the range of about 45 wt% to about 55 wt% kaolinite. In further or additional embodiments, bioceramic compositions are provided that include in the range of about 47 wt% to about 53 wt% kaolinite. In further or additional embodiments, bioceramic compositions are provided that include in the range of about 48 wt% to about 52 wt% kaolinite.

[0020] In some embodiments, a bioceramic composition is provided that comprises: a. About 50 wt% kaolinite (Al2Si2O5(OH)4); b. about 10 wt% tourmaline; c. about 18 wt% aluminum oxide (Al2O3); d. about 14 wt% silicon dioxide (SiO2); and e. Approximately 8 wt% zirconium oxide (ZrO2).

[0021] Another feature of the subject matter described herein is a bioceramic composition comprising tourmaline. As used herein, the term "tourmaline" retains its known meaning in the mineral and gemstone arts. For example, tourmaline is a group of isomorphous minerals that have identical crystal lattices. Each member of the tourmaline group has its own chemical formula due to the small differences in the distribution of elements. For example, in some embodiments, tourmaline has the general formula X1Y3Al6(BO3)3Si6O 18 (OH)4, where X=Na and / or Ca, and Y=Mg, Li, Al, and / or Fe. 2+ which has the formula (Na,Ca)(Mg,Li,Al,Fe 2+ )3Al6(BO3)3Si6O 18 It is represented by (OH)4.

[0022] In some embodiments, Al may be replaced by other elements. For example, in Uvite, Al is partially replaced by Mg, which expands the formula to: (Na,Ca)(Mg,Li,Al,Fe2+ )3(Al,Mg,Cr)6(BO3)3Si6O 18 (OH)4.

[0023] In some embodiments, the tourmaline is a Buergerite, which contains three O atoms and one F atom in place of the OH radical. The Buergerite molecule contains an Fe atom in the 3+ oxidation state, represented as follows: (Na,Ca)(Mg,Li,Al,Fe 2+ , Fe3+)3(Al,Mg,Cr)6(BO3)3Si6O18(OH,O,F)4. In other embodiments, tourmaline is one or more of the following: Schorl: NaFe 2+ 3Al6(BO3)3Si6O 18 (OH)4; Dravite: NaMg3Al6(BO3)3Si6O 18 (OH)4; Elbaite: Na(Li,Al)3Al6(BO3)3Si6O 18 (OH)4; Liddicoatite: Ca(Li,Al)3Al6(BO3)3Si6O 18 (OH)4; Uvite: Ca(Mg,Fe 2+ )3Al5Mg(BO3)3Si6O 18 (OH)4; ·Berger Tourmaline: NaFe 3+ 3Al6(BO3)3Si6O 18 O3F. In one embodiment, the bioceramic composition tourmaline is NaFe 2+ 3Al6Si6O 18 Contains (BO3)3(OH)3OH.

[0024] Another aspect of the products, compositions, methods, devices, and systems described herein are bioceramic compositions of micrometer particle size. For example, in some embodiments, bioceramic compositions are provided that include a maximum dimension of any particle in the bioceramic from about 0.1 micrometer (μm) to about 250 micrometers. In further or additional embodiments, bioceramic compositions are provided in which the maximum dimension of any particle in the bioceramic is from about 0.5 micrometers to about 25 micrometers. In some cases, the bioceramic particles can have a diameter or cross-sectional area of ​​about 0.1 μm to about 1 μm, about 0.1 μm to about 10 μm, about 0.1 μm to about 20 μm, about 0.1 μm to about 30 μm, about 0.1 μm to about 40 μm, about 0.1 μm to about 50 μm, about 0.1 μm to about 60 μm, about 0.1 μm to about 70 μm, about 0.1 μm to about 80 μm, about 0.1 μm to about 90 μm, about 0.1 μm to about 100 μm, or other desired size. In some cases, the inlet can have a cross-sectional diameter of about 10 μm to about 100 μm, about 10 μm to about 200 μm, about 10 μm to about 300 μm, about 10 μm to about 400 μm, about 10 μm to about 500 μm, or other desired size.

[0025] In further or additional embodiments, a bioceramic composition is provided that, when heated or exposed to heat, provides a biomodifying or physiological effect when the product is applied to a subject, the bioceramic composition includes tourmaline, kaolinite, and at least one oxide. In some cases, the bioceramic of the present disclosure includes tourmaline, kaolinite, aluminum oxide, and silicon dioxide. In some cases, the bioceramic of the present disclosure includes tourmaline, kaolinite, aluminum oxide, silicon dioxide, and one other oxide. In some cases, the other oxide is zirconium oxide. In some cases, the other oxide is titanium dioxide (TiO2). In some cases, the other oxide is magnesium oxide (MgO).

[0026] Kaolinite is a layered silicate mineral that contains oxides. In some cases, various oxides are contained within the kaolinite. In some cases, the bioceramic composition contains additional oxides that are not part of the kaolinite. In some embodiments, the bioceramic composition contains one oxide, two oxides, three oxides, four oxides, five oxides, six oxides, seven oxides, eight oxides, nine oxides, ten oxides, eleven oxides, twelve oxides, or more oxides. In some cases, the additional oxides are highly refractory oxides.

[0027] In some embodiments, the oxides of the disclosed bioceramic compositions have various oxidation states. The disclosed oxides have oxidation numbers of +1, +2, +3, +4, +5, +6, +7, or +8. In some cases, the disclosed bioceramic compositions have more than one oxide, with at least one oxide having a different oxidation number compared to the other oxides. For example, in some cases, the disclosed bioceramic compositions include aluminum oxide (Al2O3) with an oxidation state of +2 or +3, silicon dioxide (SiO2) with an oxidation state of +4, and zirconium oxide (ZrO2) with an oxidation state of +4.

[0028] Non-limiting examples of oxides containing a +1 oxidation state include: copper(I) oxide (CuO), dicarbon monoxide (CO), dichlorine monoxide (ClO), lithium oxide (LiO), potassium oxide (KO), rubidium oxide (RbO), silver oxide (AgO), thallium(I) oxide (TlO), sodium oxide (NaO), or water (hydrogen oxide) (HO).

[0029] Non-limiting examples of oxides containing the +2 oxidation state include aluminum(II) oxide (AlO), barium oxide (BaO), beryllium oxide (BeO), cadmium(II) oxide (tin), calcium oxide (CaO), carbon monoxide (CO), chromium(II) oxide (CrO), cobalt(II) oxide (CoO), copper(II) oxide (CuO), iron(II) oxide (FeO), lead(II) oxide (PbO), magnesium oxide (MgO), mercury(II) oxide (HgO), nickel(II) oxide (NiO), nitric oxide (NO), palladium(II) oxide (PdO), strontium oxide (SrO), sulfur monoxide (SO), disulfur dioxide (SO), tin(II) oxide (SnO), titanium(II) oxide (TiO), vanadium(II) oxide (VO), or zinc oxide (ZnO).

[0030] Non-limiting examples of oxides containing the +3 oxidation state include: aluminum oxide (Al2O3), antimony trioxide (SB2O3), arsenic trioxide (As2O3), bismuth(III) oxide (Bi2O3), boron trioxide (B2O3), chromium(III) oxide (Cr2O3), nitrogen trioxide (N2O3), erbium(III) oxide (Er2O3), gadolinium(III) oxide (Gd2O3), gallium(III) oxide (Ga2O3), holmium(III) oxide (Ho2O3), indium(III) oxide (IN2O3), iron(III) oxide (Fe2O3), lanthanum oxide (La2O3), lutetium (III) oxide (I (II) (Lu2O3), nickel(III) oxide (Ni2O3), phosphorus trioxide (P4O6), promethium(III) oxide (Pm2O3), rhodium(III) oxide (RH2O3), samarium(III) oxide (Sm2O3), scandium oxide (SC2O3), terbium(III) oxide (TB2O3), thallium(III) oxide (Tl2O3), thulium(III) oxide (Tm2O3), titanium(III) oxide (Ti2O3), tungsten(III) oxide (W2O3), vanadium(III) oxide (V2O3), ytterbium(III) oxide (YB2O3), yttrium(III) oxide (Y2O3).

[0031] Non-limiting examples of oxides containing the +4 oxidation state include: carbon dioxide (CO2), carbon trioxide (CO3), cerium (IV) oxide (CeO2), chlorine dioxide (ClO2), chromium (IV) oxide (CrO2), nitrogen dioxide (N2O4), germanium dioxide (GeO2), hafnium (IV) oxide (HfO2), lead dioxide (PbO2), manganese dioxide (MnO2), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), plutonium (IV) oxide (PuO 2), rhodium(IV) oxide (RHO2), ruthenium(IV) oxide (RuO2), selenium dioxide (SeO2), silicon dioxide (SiO2), sulfur dioxide (SO2), tellurium dioxide (TeO2), thorium dioxide (THO2), tin dioxide (SnO2), titanium dioxide (TiO2), tungsten(IV) oxide (WO2), uranium dioxide (UO2), vanadium(IV) oxide (VO2), or zirconium dioxide (ZrO2).

[0032] Non-limiting examples of oxides containing an oxidation state of +5 include: antimony pentoxide (Sb2O5), arsenic pentoxide (As2O5), dinitrogen pentoxide (N2O5), niobium pentoxide (Nb2O5), phosphorus pentoxide (PO5), tantalum pentoxide (Ta2O5), or vanadium (V) oxide (VO5). Non-limiting examples of oxides containing an oxidation state of +6 include: chromium trioxide (CrO3), molybdenum trioxide (MoO3), rhenium trioxide (ReO3), selenium trioxide (SeO3), sulfur trioxide (SO3), tellurium trioxide (TeO3), tungsten trioxide (WO3), uranium trioxide (UO3), or xenon trioxide (XeO3).

[0033] Non-limiting examples of oxides containing an oxidation state of +7 include: dichlorine heptaoxide (Cl2O7), manganese heptaoxide (Mn2O7), rhenium(VII) oxide (Re2O7), or technetium(VII) oxide (TC2O7). Non-limiting examples of oxides containing an oxidation state of +8 include: osmium tetroxide (OsO4), ruthenium(VIII) oxide (RuO4), xenon tetroxide (XeO4), iridium xenon (IrO4), or hassium xenon (HsO4). Non-limiting examples of oxides including various states of oxidation include antimony tetroxide (Sb2O4), cobalt (II, III) oxide (Co3O4), iron (II, III) oxide (Fe3O4), lead (II, IV) oxide (Pb3O4), manganese (II, III) oxide (Mn3O4), or silver (I, III) oxide (AgO).

[0034] In further or additional embodiments, the bioceramic composition of the present disclosure further comprises a metal. The metal can be in elemental form, such as a metal atom or a metal ion. Non-limiting examples of metals include transition metals, main group metals, and metals in Groups 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, and 15 of the periodic table. Non-limiting examples of metals include scandium, titanium, vanadium, chromium, manganese, iron, cobalt, nickel, copper, zinc, yttrium, zirconium, niobium, molybdenum, technetium, ruthenium, rhodium, palladium, silver, cadmium, lanthanum, hafnium, tantalum, tungsten, rhenium, osmium, iridium, platinum, gold, mercury, tin, lead, and bismuth.

[0035] The ratio of minerals to oxides in the bioceramic composition can vary depending on many variables including, for example, the amount of thermal radiation, specifically far infrared radiation, emitted, the disease or condition being treated, the method of administration, the requirements of the individual subject, the severity of the disease or condition being treated, or the judgment of the practitioner.

[0036] physical properties Tourmaline and kaolinite have different granulometric, mineralogical, chemical, and physical properties depending, for example, on whether the mineral is extracted from a particular geographic region or whether the mineral is chemically synthesized. For example, in most of the world, kaolinite has a pink-orange-red coloration that is related to the amount of impurities. Often, the impurities include iron oxides. In some embodiments, the kaolinite of the present disclosure has high purity levels and is characterized by a beautiful white color.

[0037] In some embodiments, the purity of the tourmaline or kaolinite is related to the amount of infrared energy emitted from the bioceramic composition. In some cases, the kaolinite or tourmaline of the bioceramic composition of the present disclosure is greater than 99% pure, greater than 98% pure, greater than 97% pure, greater than 96% pure, greater than 95% pure, greater than 94% pure, greater than 93% pure, greater than 92% pure, greater than 91% pure, greater than 90% pure, greater than 89% pure, greater than 88% pure, greater than 87% pure, greater than 86% pure, greater than 85% pure, greater than 80% pure, greater than 75% pure, greater than 70% pure, greater than 65% pure, greater than 60% pure, or greater than 55% pure.

[0038] In some embodiments, the particle size of the kaolinite or tourmaline is related to the amount of infrared energy emitted from the bioceramic composition, for example, bioceramic compositions containing coarser sized minerals will reflect different amounts of infrared energy compared to bioceramic compositions containing finer sized minerals. In some embodiments, the particle size of the bioceramic composition ranges from about 100 nanometers to about 0.1 micrometers, from about 100 nanometers to about 1 micrometer, from about 100 nanometers to about 10 micrometers, from about 100 nanometers to about 25 micrometers, from about 100 nanometers to about 50 micrometers, from about 100 nanometers to about 75 micrometers, from about 100 nanometers to about 100 micrometers, from about 100 nanometers to about 125 micrometers, from about 100 nanometers to about 150 micrometers, from about 100 nanometers to about 175 micrometers, from about 100 nanometers to about 200 micrometers, from about 100 nanometers to about 225 micrometers, or from about 100 nanometers to about 250 micrometers.

[0039] In some embodiments, the particle size of the bioceramic composition ranges from about 0.5 micrometers to about 1 micrometer, from about 0.5 micrometers to about 10 micrometers, from about 0.5 micrometers to about 25 micrometers, from about 0.5 micrometers to about 50 micrometers, from about 0.5 micrometers to about 75 micrometers, from about 0.5 micrometers to about 100 micrometers, from about 0.5 micrometers to about 125 micrometers, from about 0.5 micrometers to about 150 micrometers, from about 0.5 micrometers to about 175 micrometers, from about 0.5 micrometers to about 200 micrometers, from about 0.5 micrometers to about 225 micrometers, or from about 0.5 micrometers to about 250 micrometers.

[0040] Far infrared radiation, transmission, and reflection Yet another aspect of the products, compositions, methods, devices, and systems described herein is a bioceramic composition that emits, transmits, and / or reflects infrared wavelengths when heated or exposed to heat. In some embodiments, a bioceramic is provided. In some embodiments, a bioceramic is provided that absorbs, stores, and / or reflects far infrared energy or thermal energy, such as far infrared. In some embodiments, a bioceramic is provided that emits, transmits, or reflects infrared wavelengths that are far infrared and include wavelengths from about 1 micrometer to about 1 millimeter. In further or additional embodiments, a bioceramic composition is provided that emits, transmits, or reflects infrared wavelengths from about 3 micrometers to about 15 micrometers. In further or additional embodiments, a bioceramic composition is described herein that provides a bioceramic reflectance of at least 80% in the infrared region between about 7 micrometers and about 12 micrometers at room temperature at 25° C.

[0041] The material emissivity of bioceramic materials can be measured, for example, using a calorimeter or a Flir thermographic camera. A calorimeter can be used to measure the amount of heat energy that can be received, stored, and / or emitted by a garment containing the bioceramic. A Flir thermographic camera can produce thermal images of various types of garments containing the bioceramic of the present disclosure. A Flir thermographic camera can detect up to thousands of measurement points in each thermal image and provide emissivity data for each image.

[0042] The bioceramic compositions of the present disclosure are formulated to have the desired refractory properties. In some embodiments, the bioceramic compositions of the present disclosure are formulated to have the desired refractory properties. In some embodiments, the bioceramic compositions of the present disclosure are formulated to have the desired refractory properties. In some embodiments, the bioceramic compositions of the present disclosure are formulated to have the desired refractory properties. In some embodiments, the bioceramic compositions of the present disclosure are formulated to have the desired refractory properties. In some embodiments, the bioceramic compositions of the present disclosure are formulated to have the desired refractory properties. In some embodiments, the bioceramic compositions of the present disclosure are formulated to have the desired refractory properties. In some embodiments, the bioceramic compositions of the present disclosure are formulated to have the desired refractory properties. In some embodiments, the bioceramic compositions of the present disclosure are formulated to have the desired refractory properties. In some embodiments, the bioceramic compositions of the present disclosure are formulated to have the desired refractory properties. In some embodiments, the bioceramic compositions of the present disclosure are formulated to have the desired refractory properties. In some embodiments, the bioceramic compositions of the present disclosure are formulated to have the desired refractory properties. In some embodiments, the bioceramic compositions of the present disclosure are formulated to have the desired refractory properties. , about 82% of the infrared energy or infrared light received, about 81% of the infrared energy or infrared light received, about 80% of the infrared energy or infrared light received, about 79% of the infrared energy or infrared light received, about 78% of the infrared energy or infrared light received, about 77% of the infrared energy or infrared light received, about 76% of the infrared energy or infrared light received, about 75% of the infrared energy or infrared light received, about 74% of the infrared energy or infrared light received, about 73% of the infrared energy or infrared light received, about 72% of the infrared energy or infrared light received, about 71% of the infrared energy or infrared light received, about 70% of the infrared energy or infrared light received, about 65% of the infrared energy or infrared light received, about 60% of the infrared energy or infrared light received, about 55% of the infrared energy or infrared light received, about 50% of the infrared energy or infrared light received, about 45% of the infrared energy or infrared light received,reflects about 40% of the received infrared energy or infrared radiation, about 35% of the received infrared energy or infrared radiation, about 30% of the received infrared energy or infrared radiation, about 25% of the received infrared energy or infrared radiation, about 20% of the received infrared energy or infrared radiation, about 15% of the received infrared energy or infrared radiation, about 10% of the received infrared energy or infrared radiation, or about 5% of the received infrared energy or infrared radiation.

[0043] In some cases, the bioceramics of the present disclosure may be capable of absorbing more than 99% of the infrared energy or infrared radiation received, more than 98% of the infrared energy or infrared radiation received, more than 97% of the infrared energy or infrared radiation received, more than 96% of the infrared energy or infrared radiation received, more than 95% of the infrared energy or infrared radiation received, more than 94% of the infrared energy or infrared radiation received, more than 93% of the infrared energy or infrared radiation received, more than 92% of the infrared energy or infrared radiation received, more than 91% of the infrared energy or infrared radiation received, more than 90% of the infrared energy or infrared radiation received, more than 89% of the infrared energy or infrared radiation received, more than 88% of the infrared energy or infrared radiation received, more than 87% of the infrared energy or infrared radiation received, more than 86% of the infrared energy or infrared radiation received, more than 85% of the infrared energy or infrared radiation received, more than 97% of the infrared energy or infrared radiation received, more than 98% of the infrared energy or infrared radiation received, more than 9 ... more than 84% of the infrared energy or infrared rays received, more than 83% of the infrared energy or infrared rays received, more than 82% of the infrared energy or infrared rays received, more than 81% of the infrared energy or infrared rays received, more than 80% of the infrared energy or infrared rays received, more than 79% of the infrared energy or infrared rays received, more than 78% of the infrared energy or infrared rays received, more than 77% of the infrared energy or infrared rays received, more than 76% of the infrared energy or infrared rays received, more than 75% of the infrared energy or infrared rays received, more than 74% of the infrared energy or infrared rays received, more than 73% of the infrared energy or infrared rays received, more than 72% of the infrared energy or infrared rays received, more than 71% of the infrared energy or infrared rays received, more than 70% of the infrared energy or infrared rays received, more than 65% of the infrared energy or infrared rays received, more than 60% of the infrared energy or infrared rays received,reflects more than 55% of the infrared energy or infrared radiation received, more than 50% of the infrared energy or infrared radiation received, more than 45% of the infrared energy or infrared radiation received, more than 40% of the infrared energy or infrared radiation received, more than 35% of the infrared energy or infrared radiation received, more than 30% of the infrared energy or infrared radiation received, more than 25% of the infrared energy or infrared radiation received, more than 20% of the infrared energy or infrared radiation received, more than 15% of the infrared energy or infrared radiation received, more than 10% of the infrared energy or infrared radiation received, or more than 5% of the infrared energy or infrared radiation received;

[0044] In some cases, the bioceramics of the present disclosure may receive less than 99% of the infrared energy or infrared light received, less than 98% of the infrared energy or infrared light received, less than 97% of the infrared energy or infrared light received, less than 96% of the infrared energy or infrared light received, less than 95% of the infrared energy or infrared light received, less than 94% of the infrared energy or infrared light received, less than 93% of the infrared energy or infrared light received, less than 92% of the infrared energy or infrared light received, less than 91% of the infrared energy or infrared light received, less than 90% of the infrared energy or infrared light received, less than 89% of the infrared energy or infrared light received, less than 88% of the infrared energy or infrared light received, less than 87% of the infrared energy or infrared light received, less than 86% of the infrared energy or infrared light received, less than 85% of the infrared energy or infrared light received, less than 84% of the infrared energy or infrared light received, less than 83% of the infrared energy or infrared light received, or less than 89% of the infrared energy or infrared light received. is less than 82% of the infrared energy or infrared light received, less than 81% of the infrared energy or infrared light received, less than 80% of the infrared energy or infrared light received, less than 79% of the infrared energy or infrared light received, less than 78% of the infrared energy or infrared light received, less than 77% of the infrared energy or infrared light received, less than 76% of the infrared energy or infrared light received, less than 75% of the infrared energy or infrared light received, less than 74% of the infrared energy or infrared light received, less than 73% of the infrared energy or infrared light received, less than 72% of the infrared energy or infrared light received, less than 71% of the infrared energy or infrared light received, less than 70% of the infrared energy or infrared light received, less than 65% of the infrared energy or infrared light received, less than 64% of the infrared energy or infrared light received, less than 55% of the infrared energy or infrared light received, less than 50% of the infrared energy or infrared light received, less than 45% of the infrared energy or infrared light received, less than 40% of the infrared energy or infrared light received,reflects less than 35% of the infrared energy or infrared radiation received, less than 30% of the infrared energy or infrared radiation received, less than 25% of the infrared energy or infrared radiation received, less than 20% of the infrared energy or infrared radiation received, less than 15% of the infrared energy or infrared radiation received, less than 10% of the infrared energy or infrared radiation received, or less than 5% of the infrared energy or infrared radiation received;

[0045] In some embodiments, the bioceramic reflects far infrared energy towards the body of the subject, and in some embodiments, the bioceramic reflects far infrared energy away from the body of the subject. The bioceramic can provide a cooling effect when reflecting infrared energy away from the body. In some embodiments, the bioceramic is adjacent to or near an insulator. In some embodiments, a product including an insulated bioceramic provides a cooling effect to the subject, and the bioceramic reflects far infrared energy away from the subject when heated or exposed to heat.

[0046] In some embodiments, the garment of the present disclosure includes an insulator that is in contact with or adjacent to the bioceramic. The insulator can be used in embodiments where the garment containing the bioceramic is made to reflect far infrared energy away from the subject's body. In some embodiments, the insulator is a low thermal conductivity material that prevents the far infrared energy from being reflected in a certain direction. Different types of materials can be used to reflect infrared radiation, and non-limiting examples of insulators include rubber, glass, paper, plastic, wood, cloth, foil, or styrofoam.

[0047] The garments of the present disclosure can provide a therapeutically effective amount of infrared radiation to a subject. In some cases, the garment is a shirt that includes a bioceramic, and the shirt that includes a bioceramic can provide at least 1.5 Joules / cm when exposed to heat. 2of far infrared radiation to the subject. In some cases, the garment is an athletic garment, sports accessory, or sports equipment, including but not limited to orthotic inserts, athletic shoes, diving suits, life preservers, shirts, shorts, wristbands, armbands, headbands, gloves, jackets, pants, hats, and backpacks, skis, ski poles, snowboards, skateboards, in-line skates, bicycles, surfboards, water skis, jet skis, diving equipment, ropes, chains, goggles, and / or blankets. In some embodiments, the garment is a sports accessory, including but not limited to blankets. In some embodiments, the garment is configured for use in orthotic applications, including but not limited to orthotic inserts, shoes, and the like. In some cases, the apparel is a patch (e.g., a patch made for attachment to the skin or not, such as a transdermal patch, a transdermal hydrogel patch, etc.), adhesive tape such as kinesio, non-adhesive tape, pads, shoe insoles, bedding including sheets, mattresses, covers, pillows, and / or pillowcases, body supports, foam rollers, lotions, soaps, tapes, glassware, furniture, paints, inks, labels, carpets, mats, food and / or beverage containers, beverage koozies (e.g., bottles or cans), headware (e.g., helmets, hats, etc.), footwear (e.g., shoes, sneakers, sandals, etc.), earphones, court surfaces, sports court surfaces, artificial turf, etc. In some cases, the apparel is a shirt, pants, shorts, dresses, skirts, jackets, hats, underwear, socks, caps, gloves, scarves, diapers, blankets, comforters, duvet covers, mattress covers, mattress pads, etc. In another embodiment, the article is a body support selected from a knee brace, an elbow brace, a compression arm sleeve, a compression leg sleeve, a wrist wrap, and the like.

[0048] In some embodiments, the subject matter described herein provides a 1 Joule / cm 2 or 45 Joules / cm 2 , 2-10 Joules / cm2 , or 4-6 Joules / cm 2 In certain embodiments, the bioceramic formulation provides at least 1 Joule / cm of far infrared energy or infrared radiation to the subject. 2 , 1.5 Joules / cm 2 , at least 2 Joules / cm 2 , at least 3 Joules / cm 2 , at least 4 Joules / cm 2 , at least 5 Joules / cm 2 , at least 6 Joules / cm 2 , at least 7 Joules / cm 2 , at least 8 Joules / cm 2 , at least 9 Joules / cm 2 , at least 10 Joules / cm 2 , at least 11 Joules / cm 2 , at least 12 Joules / cm 2 , at least 13 Joules / cm 2 , at least 14 Joules / cm 2 , at least 15 Joules / cm 2 , at least 16 Joules / cm 2 , at least 17 Joules / cm 2 , at least 18 Joules / cm 2 , at least 19 Joules / cm 2 , at least 20 Joules / cm 2 , at least 21 Joules / cm 2 , at least 22 Joules / cm 2 , at least 23 Joules / cm 2 , at least 24 Joules / cm 2 , at least 25 Joules / cm 2 , at least 26 Joules / cm 2 , at least 27 Joules / cm 2 , at least 28 Joules / cm 2 , at least 29 Joules / cm 2 , at least 30 Joules / cm 2 , at least 31 Joules / cm 2 , at least 32 Joules / cm 2, at least 33 Joules / cm 2 , at least 34 Joules / cm 2 , at least 35 Joules / cm 2 , at least 36 Joules / cm 2 , at least 37 Joules / cm 2 , at least 38 Joules / cm 2 , at least 39 Joules / cm 2 , at least 40 Joules / cm 2 , at least 41 Joules / cm 2 , at least 42 Joules / cm 2 , at least 43 Joules / cm 2 , at least 44 Joules / cm 2 , about 45 Joules / cm 2 of far-infrared energy or far-infrared radiation is applied to the subject.

[0049] In some cases, the garments of the present disclosure have a thermal conductivity of at most 1.5 Joules / cm 2 , at most 2 Joules / cm 2 , at most 3 Joules / cm 2 , at most 4 joules / cm 2 , at most 5 joules / cm 2 , at most 6 joules / cm 2 , at most 7 joules / cm 2 , at most 8 joules / cm 2 , at most 9 joules / cm 2 , at most 10 Joules / cm 2 , at most 11 Joules / cm 2 , at most 12 Joules / cm 2 , at most 13 Joules / cm 2 , at most 14 Joules / cm 2 , at most 15 Joules / cm 2 , at most 16 Joules / cm 2 , at most 17 Joules / cm 2 , at most 18 Joules / cm 2 , at most 19 Joules / cm 2 , at most 20 Joules / cm 2 , at most 21 Joules / cm 2, at most 22 Joules / cm 2 , at most 23 Joules / cm 2 , at most 24 Joules / cm 2 , at most 25 Joules / cm 2 , at most 26 Joules / cm 2 , at most 27 Joules / cm 2 , at most 28 Joules / cm 2 , at most 29 Joules / cm 2 , at most 30 Joules / cm 2 , at most 31 Joules / cm 2 , at most 32 Joules / cm 2 , at most 33 Joules / cm 2 , at most 34 Joules / cm 2 , at most 35 Joules / cm 2 , at most 36 Joules / cm 2 , at most 37 Joules / cm 2 , at most 38 Joules / cm 2 , at most 39 Joules / cm 2 , at most 40 Joules / cm 2 , at most 41 Joules / cm 2 , at most 42 Joules / cm 2 , at most 43 Joules / cm 2 , at most 44 Joules / cm 2 , at most 45 Joules / cm 2 of far-infrared energy or far-infrared radiation is applied to the subject.

[0050] In some cases, the garments of the present disclosure have a thermal conductivity of 1.5 Joules / cm 2 Up to 45 Joules / cm 2 , 1.5 Joules / cm 2 Up to 40 Joules / cm 2 , 1.5 Joules / cm 2 Up to 35 Joules / cm 2 , 1.5 Joules / cm 2 Up to 30 Joules / cm 2 , 1.5 Joules / cm 2 ~25 Joules cm2, 1.5 Joules / cm 2 ~20 Joules cm2, 1.5 Joules / cm2 ~15 Joules cm2, 1.5 Joules / cm 2 Up to 10 Joules / cm 2 , 1.5 Joules / cm 2 Up to 5 Joules / cm 2 , 2 Joules / cm 2 Up to 45 Joules cm2, 2 Joules / cm 2 Up to 40 Joules cm2, 2 Joules / cm 2 Up to 35 Joules cm2, 2 Joules / cm 2 Up to 30 Joules / cm 2 , 2 Joules / cm 2 Up to 25 Joules / cm 2 , 2 Joules / cm 2 Up to 20 Joules / cm 2 , 2 Joules / cm 2 Up to 15 Joules / cm 2 , 2 Joules / cm 2 Up to 10 Joules / cm 2 , 2 Joules / cm 2 Up to 5 Joules / cm 2 of far infrared energy or far infrared radiation to the subject. In some cases, the device is a shirt, and the shirt has at most 45 Joules / cm 2 of far infrared energy or infrared light is provided to the subject.

[0051] Infrared energy can be absorbed, reflected, or emitted by molecules. In most cases, thermal radiation emitted by objects at or near room temperature (about 25° C.) is infrared.

[0052] For example, in certain applications of the subject matter described herein, infrared energy is emitted or absorbed by molecules during rotational and / or vibrational motion. In certain embodiments, the bioceramic materials provided herein provide infrared energy that induces a vibrational mode in the molecules through a change in dipole moment. In some embodiments, the absorption of heat by the bioceramic of the present disclosure induces a vibrational mode in at least one molecule of the bioceramic through a change in dipole moment. Furthermore, infrared energy from thermal radiation is absorbed and reflected by molecules in the bioceramic in certain embodiments as the molecules in the bioceramic change rotational vibrational energy. In further or additional embodiments, bioceramics are provided herein that include forming ceramic materials and vibrational techniques that provide improved biomodifying properties when in contact with or applied to a subject, including, by way of example, a human subject.

[0053] product The products, compositions, methods, devices, and systems described herein are products that include compositions that include bioceramics, which, when heated or exposed to heat, provide a biomodifying or physiological effect when the product is applied to a subject.

[0054] In some embodiments, articles of manufacture incorporating the bioceramic composition and articles to which the bioceramic is applied are provided. In one embodiment, the bioceramic composition is present as a coating on at least a portion of the surface of the article (e.g., the interior or exterior of the article) or is directly incorporated into a substrate before or after manufacture of the article itself. In another embodiment, the substrate is a polymeric, textile, or metallic material.

[0055] In some embodiments, bioceramic compositions are provided that further comprise a substrate, binder, solvent, polymer, or ink. In some embodiments, bioceramic compositions are provided that further comprise a substrate comprising at least one elastomer. In some embodiments, bioceramic compositions are provided that further comprise a polymer selected from the group consisting of polyoxybenzylmethylenglycolanhydride, polyvinyl chloride, polystyrene, polyethylene, polypropylene, polyacrylonitrile, polyvinyl butyral, polylactic acid, and combinations thereof. In further or additional embodiments, bioceramic compositions are provided that include an elastomer selected from the group consisting of polychloroprene, nylon, polyvinyl chloride elastomers, polystyrene elastomers, polyethylene elastomers, polypropylene elastomers, polyvinyl butyral elastomers, silicones, thermoplastic elastomers, and combinations thereof.

[0056] In some embodiments, an article is provided containing the bioceramic composition further comprising a substrate comprising a material selected from the group consisting of wool, silk, cotton, canvas, jute, glass, nylon, polyester, acrylic, elastane, polychloroprene, laminated fabrics containing expanded polytetrafluoroethylene, and combinations thereof. In further or additional embodiments, an article is provided containing the bioceramic composition further comprising a polygel.

[0057] For example, in one embodiment, the polymeric product is prepared by mixing the bioceramic composition with a polymeric substrate or by applying the bioceramic to a substrate, while the substrate is in liquid or fluid form. In some embodiments, the amount of the bioceramic composition incorporated into or applied to the polymeric substrate can be any suitable amount that reflects a sufficient amount of far infrared energy. In one embodiment, the bioceramic composition is added in an amount of about 1 wt% to about 75 wt% of the total weight of the product. In another embodiment, the bioceramic composition is added in an amount of about 0.01 wt% to about 25 wt% of the total weight of the product. In yet another embodiment, the bioceramic composition is added in an amount of about 3 wt% to about 20 wt% of the total weight of the product. In a further embodiment, the bioceramic composition is added in an amount of about 7 wt% to about 13 wt% of the total weight of the product. In another embodiment, the polymeric substrate is in the form of a fabric substrate, such as a shirt, which is discussed in more detail below.

[0058] The polymer matrix may include any polymer useful in preparing a product. For example, the polymer matrix may include at least one elastomeric polymer or at least one non-elastomeric polymer. Such polymeric systems include polymer blends that include continuous and / or dispersed phases, such as combined polymers and polymer systems.

[0059] Elastomers include, but are not limited to, polymeric materials such as natural rubber, synthetic rubber, viscoelastic polymers, elastic and rubber. One example of a synthetic rubber is polychloroprene (neoprene). In one embodiment, the elastomer is selected from polychloroprene, nylon, polyvinyl chloride elastomers, polystyrene elastomers, polyethylene elastomers, polypropylene elastomers, polyvinyl butyral elastomers, silicones, thermoplastic elastomers, and combinations thereof.

[0060] Thermoplastic elastomers (TPEs) are composite materials resulting from the combination of elastomeric and thermoplastic materials. TPEs are elastomeric materials that are dispersed and crosslinked in a continuous phase of thermoplastic material. Examples of conventional TPEs include Santoprene® available from Advanced Elastomers Systems, Inc. and Sarlink® available from DSM Elastomers, Inc.

[0061] In one embodiment, the non-elastomer is selected from the group of polymers including, but not limited to, polyoxybenzyl methylene glycol anhydride, polyvinyl chloride, polystyrene, polyethylene, polypropylene, polyacrylonitrile, polyvinyl butyral, polylactic acid.

[0062] With respect to the fabric substrate and the product comprising the bioceramic composition, the bioceramic composition can be applied to the fabric by any process known in the fabric / textile art using a liquid or fluid carrier containing the bioceramic composition. For example, a silk screen printing process, a dot application process, a binder solution application process, a visible repeating pattern process, or other suitable methods can be used. Silk screen printing is a printing process that uses a form, also called a frame or sieve, that contains a fabric with a fine mesh that remains permeable to the ink in areas of the image that are reformed and impermeable in other areas. The dot application process uses a specific device, such as a syringe containing the bioceramic, to apply the ceramics to specific parts of the garment. The binder solution application process is used to dip the fabric into a solution containing the bioceramic or into indistinct areas - in some cases this is used to impregnate the fabric with the bioceramic. The visible repeating pattern process is used to add a single pattern or a repeat of a pattern to the garment. In one embodiment, the bioceramic composition can be incorporated into an ink, which is then silk screened onto at least a portion of the surface of the fabric substrate.

[0063] In another embodiment, the bioceramic composition is combined with one or more liquid polymers (e.g., polyester and / or the like) and the bioceramic / polymer composition is then extruded using methods known in the art to form fibers that are used to prepare fabric substrates.

[0064] Fabric substrates useful herein include woven or textile substrates prepared by any method known to those skilled in the art of fabric making. Such techniques include, but are not limited to, weaving, knitting, crocheting, felting, knotting, bonding, and the like. Suitable starting materials for fabric substrates include natural or synthetic (e.g., polymeric) fibers and filaments. In one embodiment, the fabric substrate includes a material selected from, but is not limited to, wool, silk, cotton, canvas, jute, glass, nylon, polyester, acrylic, elastane, polychloroprene, laminated fabrics containing expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (e.g., Gore-Tex® fabrics), and combinations thereof.

[0065] For products that include a metal substrate, the bioceramic composition is optionally applied to the metal in liquid / fluid form by any process known in the metalworking art. For example, the bioceramic composition is optionally incorporated into a liquid / fluid carrier, such as, but not limited to, a paint, sealant, varnish, and applied to at least a portion of the surface of the metal substrate. The amount of the bioceramic composition added to the paint or other liquid / fluid carrier can be any suitable amount. Metal substrates suitable for use herein include any metal substrate that is useful for preparing a product incorporating the bioceramic composition. Exemplary metal substrates include pure metals and alloys. In one embodiment, the metal substrate is selected from zinc, molybdenum, cadmium, scandium, titanium, vanadium, chromium, manganese, iron, cobalt, nickel, copper, zirconium, niobium, ruthenium, rhodium, palladium, silver, tantalum, tungsten, rhenium, osmium, iridium, platinum, gold, aluminum, gallium, indium, tin, and the like.

[0066] clothing In fact, any product to which the bioceramic composition can be applied or incorporated therein is suitable. In one embodiment, the product is selected from apparel (e.g., clothing: jewelry, patches (e.g., patches designed to be attached to the skin, such as transdermal patches, transdermal hydrogel patches), adhesive tapes such as kinesio, non-adhesive tapes, pads, shoe insoles, performance sleeves, uniforms, casual / leisure clothing, bedding including sheets, mattresses, covers, pillows, and pillowcases, body supports, supports, foam rollers, lotions, soaps, tapes, glassware, furniture, paints, inks, labels, carpets, mats, food and / or beverage containers, beverage koozies (e.g., bottles or cans), headwear (e.g., helmets, hats, etc.), footwear (e.g., shoes, sneakers, sandals, etc.), earphones, court surfaces, sports surfaces, artificial turf.

[0067] In some embodiments, the apparel includes athletic apparel, sports accessories, and sports equipment, including, but not limited to, orthotic inserts, athletic shoes, uniforms, footwear, insoles, performance sleeves, diving suits, life preservers, shirts, shorts, wristbands, armbands, headwear (e.g., skull caps), headbands, gloves, jackets, pants, hats, and backpacks, skis, ski poles, snowboards, skateboards, in-line skates, bicycles, surfboards, water skis, jet skis, diving equipment, ropes, chains, goggles, and blankets. In some embodiments, the apparel is a sports accessory, including, but not limited to, blankets. In some embodiments, the apparel is configured for use in orthotic applications, including, but not limited to, orthotic inserts, shoes, and the like.

[0068] In another embodiment, the article is clothing selected from shirts, pants, shorts, dresses, skirts, jackets, hats, underwear, socks, caps, gloves, scarves, diapers, and the like. In yet another embodiment, the article is jewelry selected from bracelets, necklaces, earrings, medallions, pendants, rings, and the like. In yet another embodiment, the article is bedding selected from blankets, sheets, pillows, pillowcases, comforters, duvet covers, mattress covers, mattress pads, and the like. In another embodiment, the article is a body support selected from knee blankets, elbow supports, compression arm sleeves, compression leg sleeves, wrist wraps, and the like. In some embodiments, the apparel comprises casual / leisure clothing.

[0069] In further or additional embodiments, a product incorporating a bioceramic composition or having a bioceramic applied thereto is provided, the product being selected from the group consisting of clothing, jewelry, patches, pads, shoe insoles, bedding, body supports, foam rollers, lotions, soaps, tapes, glassware, furniture, paints, inks, labels, carpets, mats, food and / or beverage containers, beverage koozies, headwear, footwear, earphones, and combinations thereof. In further or additional embodiments, the product comprises apparel such as clothing. In some embodiments, the apparel is casual / leisure apparel. In some embodiments, the apparel is athletic apparel. In some embodiments, the apparel comprises a shirt, jacket, shorts, or pants. In still further embodiments, the apparel comprises a wristband, pad, knee bracelet, anklet, sleeve, performance sleeve, headwear (e.g., skull cap), patch, footwear, or shoe insole.

[0070] In some embodiments, the article is a court surface, a sports court surface, or artificial turf.

[0071] Biomodulation Effects Another aspect of the products, compositions, methods, devices, and systems described herein is a bioceramic composition that, when heated or exposed to heat, such as human radiation, provides a biomodifying or physiological effect. In some embodiments, the biomodifying or physiological effect includes pain regulation, increased muscle endurance, increased stamina, increased muscle strength, regulation of the cardiopulmonary system such as increased lung capacity, increased flexibility, regulation of cellular metabolism, improved analgesia, antioxidant effects, anti-fibromyalgia effects, reduced inflammation, reduced oxidative stress, regulation of cytokine levels, regulation of blood circulation, reduced intolerance to cold and hot environments, reduced symptoms of arthritis or vascular disease, increased skin perfusion, reduced heart rate, reduced blood pressure, more rapid recovery from injury or exercise, cosmetic effects such as reduced cellulite in a subject, and improvements in quality of life.

[0072] The bioceramic compositions of the present disclosure have biomodifying or physiological effects in a variety of subjects. In some embodiments, subjects include humans, non-human primates such as chimpanzees, and other apes and monkeys; livestock animals such as cows, horses, sheep, goats, and pigs; farm animals such as rabbits, dogs, and cats; and laboratory animals including rodents, such as rats, mice, and guinea pigs. Subjects can be of any age. In some embodiments, subjects are, for example, older adults, adults, adolescents, adolescents, children, infants, and young children.

[0073] In some embodiments, the biomodulatory or physiological effect is a change in body composition. Body composition can be described in terms of body mass index, fat mass index, skeletal muscle mass index, body fat percentage, or any combination thereof. Various methods can be used to measure body composition, such as bioimpedance analysis. Bioimpedance analyzers can be used in bioimpedance analysis to calculate an estimate of total body water (TBW). TBW can be used to estimate lean body mass, and body fat by difference with body weight.

[0074] In some embodiments, the biomodulatory or physiological effect is an increase or decrease in the expression level of a biomarker. A biomarker generally refers to any characteristic that is objectively measured and evaluated as an indicator of normal biological processes, normal muscle function, pathogenic processes, or pharmacological response to a bioceramic. Unless otherwise specified, the term biomarker as used herein refers to, among other things, a biomarker that has biophysical properties that allow for its measurement in a biological sample (e.g., saliva, plasma, serum, cerebrospinal fluid, bronchoalveolar lavage, biopsy). Examples of biomarkers include nucleic acid biomarkers (e.g., oligonucleotides or polynucleotides), peptide or protein biomarkers, cytokines, hormones, or lipids. In some embodiments, a product comprising the bioceramic composition of the present disclosure has a biomodulatory or physiological effect on a biomarker.

[0075] In some embodiments, the biomarker is a cytokine. Non-limiting examples of cytokines include: a) cytokines in the IL-2 subfamily, such as erythropoietin (EPO) and thrombopoietin (TPO); b) interferon (IFN) subfamily, such as IFN-γ; c) IL-6 subfamily; d) IL-10 subfamily; e) IL-1 subfamily, such as IL-1 and IL-18; f) IL-17; or g) tumor necrosis factor family, such as tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF alpha or TNF-α). In some embodiments, products comprising the bioceramic compositions of the present disclosure have a biomodulatory or physiological effect on cytokines. In some embodiments, cytokines are associated with inflammation, pain, muscle endurance, regulation of the cardiopulmonary system, regulation of cellular metabolism, analgesia, cellular oxidation, fibromyalgia effects, or other diseases described herein.

[0076] In some embodiments, the biomarker is a wild-type protein or a protein modified from its native state. For example, protein carbonylation is a type of protein oxidation that can be promoted by reactive oxygen species. It generally refers to the process of forming reactive ketones or aldehydes suitable for reacting with 2,4-dinitrophenylhydrazine (DNPH) to form hydrazones. Direct oxidation of the side chains of lysine, arginine, proline, and threonine residues, among other amino acids, in a "primary protein carbonylation" reaction produces DNPH-detectable protein products. In some embodiments, products comprising the bioceramic compositions of the present disclosure have a biomodifying or physiological effect on proteins. In some embodiments, proteins are associated with inflammation, pain, muscle endurance, regulation of the cardiopulmonary system, regulation of cellular metabolism, analgesia, cellular oxidation, fibromyalgia effects, or other diseases described herein.

[0077] In some embodiments, the biomarkers are wild-type lipids or lipids modified from their natural state. For example, lipid peroxidation refers to the oxidative degradation of lipids. This is the process by which free radicals remove electrons from lipids in cell membranes, resulting in cell damage. In some embodiments, products comprising the bioceramic compositions of the present disclosure have a biomodifying or physiological effect on lipids. In some embodiments, lipids are associated with inflammation, pain, muscle endurance, regulation of the cardiopulmonary system, regulation of cellular metabolism, analgesia, cellular oxidation, fibromyalgia effects, or other disorders described herein.

[0078] In some embodiments, the bioceramic composition provides a biomodulatory or physiological effect that comprises a statistically significant change. In further or additional embodiments, the biomodulatory or physiological effect comprises a change in effect that is at least 5%. In some embodiments, the biomodulatory or physiological effect comprises a change in effect that is at least 10%. In still further or additional embodiments, the biomodulatory or physiological effect is analgesia, and the pain is caused by physical activity. In still further or additional embodiments, the biomodulatory or physiological effect is inflammation.

[0079] The time required for the bioceramics of the present disclosure to modulate the effect of a biomarker often depends on the general amount, distribution, and concentration of the bioceramics in contact with the subject. In some embodiments, the biomodifying or physiological effect of the bioceramics of the present disclosure is achieved within less than 10 minutes, less than 1 hour, less than 6 hours, less than 12 hours, less than 24 hours, less than 48 hours, less than 72 hours, less than 1 week, less than 2 weeks, less than 3 weeks, less than 4 weeks, less than 2 months, less than 6 months, or less than 12 months of use of the garment containing the bioceramics.

[0080] Adjuvant therapy The bioceramics of the present disclosure can provide many therapeutic benefits to a subject wearing a garment that includes the bioceramic. The far-infrared energy provided by the bioceramic can be useful in improving blood circulation, reducing pain, strengthening the cardiovascular system, reducing joint stiffness and inflammation, and regenerating skin cells. The far-infrared energy can provide analgesic effects to a subject. The examples described in this disclosure provide qualitative and quantitative metrics of the bioceramic on many physiological parameters. However, in some cases, the bioceramic garment can include another active compound. In other cases, a treatment regimen utilizing the bioceramic can be administered along with an adjunct therapy.

[0081] Bioceramics can be formulated with other active compounds / substances. In some instances, bioceramics are formulated with pharma- ceutical active or inactive compounds that provide a desired odor, sensation, or feel. For example, a garment, such as a patch, can be formulated with one or more additional active or inactive substances. The one or more other substances can be, for example, menthol, cinnamon, peppermint, hot pepper (capsaicin), camphor, mustard, medicinal herbs, compounds derived from said medicinal herbs, or substitutes thereof. The ratio of the agent (e.g., bioceramic) to another substance can be at least 100:1, 95:1, 90:1, 85:1, 80:1, 75:1, 70:1, 65:1, 60:1, 55:1, 50:1, 45:1, 40:1, 35:1, 30:1, 25:1, 20:1, 15:1, 10:1, 5:1, 2:1, 1:1, 1:2, 1:5, 1:10, 1:15, 1:20, 1:25, 1:30, 1:35, 1:40, 1:45, 1:50, 1:55, 1:60, 1:65, 1:70, 1:75, 1:80, 1:85, 1:90, 1:95, or 1:100.

[0082] In some cases, the bioceramic composition can have an analgesic effect on a subject wearing a garment: e.g., a patch, shirt, shorts, etc., that includes the bioceramic. In some cases, the analgesic effect is provided solely by the bioceramic and additional materials. Multiple doses of active materials such as menthol, cinnamon, peppermint, hot pepper (capsaicin), mustard, medicinal herbs, compounds derived from said medicinal herbs, or substitutes thereof, can be incorporated into the garments of the present disclosure.Non-limiting examples of medicinal herbs and typical species include: Euterpe oleracea, Medicago sativa, Aloe vera (e.g. Aloe barbadensis), Arnica montana, aroeira (Schinus terebinthifolius), Saraca indica, Euphorbia hirta, Astragalus propinquus, Berberis vulgaris, Atropa belladonna, Vaccinium myrtillus, Momordica charantia, bitter leaf (Vernonia amygdalina), Citrus × aurantium, Boswellia serrata, black cohosh (Actaea racemosa), Cnicus benedictus, blueberries (genus Vaccinium), burdock (Arctium lappa), Solanum mauritianum, cat's claw (Uncaria tomentosa), chili peppers (Capsicum annuum), celery (Apium graveolens), chamomile (e.g. Matricaria recutita and Anthemis nobilis), chaparral (Larrea tridentata), chasteberry (Vitex agnus-castus), chilli (Capsicum frutescens), cinchona (a genus of about 38 species of trees, the bark of which is a source of alkaloids, including quinine), cloves (Syzygium aromaticum), hubbard (Cassia occidentalis), comfrey (Symphytum officinale), cranberries (Vaccinium macrocarpon), dandelion (Taraxacum officinale), digitalis (Digitalis lanata),. Dong quai (Angelica sinensis), elderberry (Sambucus nigra), ephedra sinica, eucalyptus tree (Eucalyptus globulus), mistletoe (Viscum album), evening primrose (Oenothera spp.), fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum), feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium), linseed (Linum usitatissimum), garlic (Allium sativum), ginger (Zingiber officinale), ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba), ginseng (Panax ginseng, and Panax quinquefolius), goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis), green tea (Camellia sinensis), grapes (Vitis vinifera), guava (Psidium guajava), hawthorn (especially Crataegus monogyna and Crataegus laevigata), henna (Lawsonia Inermis), hoodia (Hoodia gordonii), horse chestnut (Aesculus hippocastanum), Horsetail (Equisetum arvense), Jamaican Dogwood (Piscidia erythrina / Piscidia piscipula), Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia), Lemon (Citrus limon), Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra), Lotus (Nelumbo nucifera), Marigold (Calendula officinalis), Marshmallow (Althaea officinalis), Noni (Morinda citrifolia), Poppy (Papaver somniferum), Oregano (Origanum vulgare), Peppermint (Mentha x piperita), Polygala (Paniculata L), Podofilox, Sucupira (Pterodon emarginatus), Summer Savory (Satureja hortensis), Formosan crane (Tripterygium wilfordii), turmeric (Curcuma longa), willow bark (Salix alba), and white willow (Salix alba).

[0083] In some cases, the bioceramic composition can have an anti-inflammatory effect on a subject wearing a garment, such as: a patch, shirt, shorts, etc., that includes the bioceramic. In some cases, the anti-inflammatory effect is provided by a combination of the bioceramic and an additional material. Multiple doses of anti-inflammatory materials can be incorporated into the garments of the present disclosure. Substances, of medicinal herbal origin, and typical species that can provide an anti-inflammatory effect include: alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.), aloe vera gel, andiroba oil (Carapa guianensis), ashwagandha root (Withania somnifera), Balm of Gilead (Populus spp), Balsam of Peru (Myroxylon pereirae), barberry (Berberis vulgaris L.), barley grass (Hordeum vulgare), bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus), birch bark and leaves (Betula alba), black seed oil (Nigella sativa), bulbul (Eupatorium perfoliatum), borage seed oil (Borago sativa), and many others. officinalis), Boswellia (Frankincense), Boswellia (Frankincense), Boswellia tulifera, Bupleurum chinense, Calendula officinalis, Cat's claw (Uncaria tomentosa), Chamomile (Matricaria recutita), Chickweed (Stellaria media), Chicory root (Cichorium intybus), Chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum morifolium, C.sinense), coriander (Coriandrum sativum), copaiba balsam (Copaifera Officinalis), gold palm (Coptis spp), corn silk (Zea mays), cornflower (Centaurea cyanus), cumin (Cuminum cyminum), devil's claw (Harpagophytum procumbens), echinacea (Echinacea angustifolia), feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium), scrophularia nodosa, ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba L.), grindelia (Grindelia spp), everlasting flower oil (Helichrysum angustifolium), Jamaica dogwood (Piscidia piscipula), Joe-pye weed (Eupatorium purpureum), marshmallow root (Althaea officinalis L.), mullein (Verbascum spp.), oats (Avena sativa L.), barberry root (Mahonia aquifolium), pineapple (Ananas comosus), sarsaparilla root (Smilax sarsaparilla), sea buckthorn oil (Hippophae rhamnoides), shea nut butter (Butyrospermum parkii), soapwort (Saponaria officinalis), pepper (Aralia racemosa), Spilanthes acmella, tamanu oil (Calophyllum inophyllum), turmeric (Curcuma longa L.), white peony (Paeonia albiflora), white willow bark (Salix Alba), wild cherry bark (Prunus serotina), witch hazel (Hamamelis virginiana), yarrow (Achillea millefolium), and yucca root (Yucca spp.).

[0084] In some cases, the active agent is an analgesic. In some cases, the multiple doses are from about 1 mg to about 2000 mg; from about 5 mg to about 1000 mg, from about 10 mg to about 25 mg to 500 mg, from about 50 mg to about 250 mg, from about 100 mg to about 200 mg, from about 1 mg to about 50 mg, from about 50 mg to about 100 mg, from about 100 mg to about 150 mg, from about 150 mg to about 200 mg, from about 200 mg to about 250 mg, from about 250 mg to about 300 mg, from about 300 mg to about 350 mg, from about 350 mg to about 400 mg, from about 400 mg to about 500 mg, from about 400 mg to about 500 mg, from about 400 mg to about 600 mg, from about 400 mg to about 700 mg, from about 400 mg to about 800 mg, from about 400 mg to about 900 mg, from about 400 mg to about 1000 mg, from about 400 mg to about 15 ... g to about 400 mg, about 400 mg to about 450 mg, about 450 mg to about 500 mg, about 500 mg to about 550 mg, about 550 mg to about 600 mg, about 600 mg to about 650 mg, about 650 mg to about 700 mg, about 700 mg to about 750 mg, about 750 mg to about 800 mg, about 800 mg to about 850 mg, about 850 mg to about 900 mg, about 900 mg to about 950 mg, or about 950 mg to about 1000 mg. In some cases, multiple doses are administered to the subject using a treatment regimen that occurs over a period of time. The time period can be about, at least, or at most 30 seconds, 1 minute, 2 minutes, 3 minutes, 4 minutes, 5 minutes, 6 minutes, 7 minutes, 8 minutes, 9 minutes, 10 minutes, 11 minutes, 12 minutes, 13 minutes, 14 minutes, 15 minutes, 16 minutes, 17 minutes, 18 minutes, 19 minutes, or 20 minutes.

[0085] In addition to the benefits of using a garment containing bioceramics alone, a subject can combine the use of a bioceramic garment with an additional treatment regimen as a co-adjuvant therapy. For example, physical therapy can be used as a co-adjuvant treatment to a bioceramic treatment regimen. Further examples of co-adjuvant therapy include physical therapy, physical rehabilitation, hydrotherapy, pilates, or another suitable alternative therapy.

[0086] The adjunctive therapy regimen can be prescribed to the subject concomitantly with the treatment regimen that includes the use of the bioceramic garment. The adjunctive therapy regimen can be administered in a number of settings, such as the subject's home, fitness and sports training facilities, outpatient clinics or offices, health and wellness clinics, rehabilitation hospital facilities, nursing facilities, long-term care facilities, private homes, education and research centers, schools, hospices, workplaces, or other settings.

[0087] Non-invasive method of providing biomodulation to a subject Another aspect of the subject matter described herein is a non-invasive method of producing a biomodifying or physiological effect in or on a subject comprising contacting the skin of the subject with a product comprising a bioceramic, the bioceramic composition, when heated or exposed to heat, produces far infrared thermal radiation and a biomodifying or physiological effect on the subject in a non-invasive manner.

[0088] For example, in some embodiments, bioceramic compositions are provided which, when heated or exposed to heat, provide a biomodifying or physiological effect when the product is applied to a subject, including: a. about 20 wt% to about 80 wt% kaolinite (Al2Si2O5(OH)4); b. about 1 wt.% to about 30 wt.% tourmaline; c. about 1 wt % to about 40 wt % aluminum oxide (Al2O3); d. about 1 wt % to about 40 wt % silicon dioxide (SiO2); and e. about 1 wt % to about 20 wt % zirconium oxide (ZrO2); The amount is by total weight of the bioceramic composition.

[0089] In further or additional embodiments, bioceramic compositions are provided which, when heated or exposed to heat, provide a biomodifying or physiological effect when the product is applied to a subject, including: a. about 40 wt% to about 60 wt% kaolinite (Al2Si2O5(OH)4); b. about 5 wt.% to about 15 wt.% tourmaline; c. about 15% to about 25% by weight aluminum oxide (Al2O3); d. about 10 wt % to about 20 wt % silicon dioxide (SiO2); and e. about 1 wt % to about 20 wt % zirconium oxide (ZrO2); The amount is based on the total weight of the bioceramic composition. In some embodiments, the bioceramic composition comprises in the range of about 45 wt% to about 55 wt% kaolinite. In further or additional embodiments, bioceramic compositions are provided that comprise in the range of about 47 wt% to about 53 wt% kaolinite. In further or additional embodiments, bioceramic compositions are provided that include in the range of about 48 wt% to about 52 wt% kaolinite.

[0090] In some embodiments, a bioceramic composition is provided that comprises: a. About 50 wt% kaolinite (Al2Si2O5(OH)4); b. about 10 wt% tourmaline; c. about 18 wt% aluminum oxide (Al2O3); d. about 14 wt% silicon dioxide (SiO2); and e. Approximately 8 wt% zirconium oxide (ZrO2).

[0091] In some embodiments, biomodifying or physiological effects include: modulation of pain, increased muscle endurance, modulation of the cardiopulmonary system, modulation of cellular metabolism, analgesia, antioxidant effects, anti-fibromyalgia effects, reduction in inflammation, reduction in oxidative stress, reduction in endoplasmic reticulum stress, modulation of cytokine levels, modulation of blood circulation, reduction in intolerance to cold and hot environments, reduction in symptoms of arthritis or vascular disease, increased skin perfusion, reduced heart rate, reduced blood pressure, reduced body measurements, reduced weight, or cosmetic effects such as reduction in cellulite in a subject.

[0092] In some embodiments, the bioceramic composition provides a biomodulatory or physiological effect that comprises a statistically significant change. In further or additional embodiments, the biomodulatory or physiological effect comprises a change that is at least 5% of the effect.

[0093] In some embodiments, products incorporating bioceramic compositions or having bioceramics applied thereto are provided, the products being selected from the group consisting of clothing, jewelry, patches, pads, shoe insoles, bedding, body supports, foam rollers, lotions, soaps, tapes, glassware, furniture, paints, inks, labels, carpets, mats, food and / or beverage containers, beverage koozies, headwear, footwear, earphones, and combinations thereof. In further or additional embodiments, the products include apparel such as clothing. In some embodiments, the apparel includes shirts, jackets, shorts, or pants. In still further embodiments, the apparel includes wristbands, pads, knee bracelets, anklets, sleeves, or patches. In some embodiments, the products include court surfaces, sports court surfaces, or artificial turf.

[0094] The bioceramic composition may be a combination of any of the compounds described herein with other chemical moieties, such as carriers, stabilizers, diluents, dispersants, suspending agents, thickeners, and / or excipients. The bioceramic may be administered directly or indirectly to the skin of a subject. In some cases, the active compound may be applied to the product and indirectly exposed to the subject. In other cases, the active compound may be applied directly to the skin of a subject.

[0095] <Manufacturing method> Another aspect of the subject matter described herein is a method of preparing a product comprising the steps of: a. preparing a bioceramic solution; and b. applying said solution to said article; wherein the solution, when applied to the article, comprises about 20 wt% to about 80 wt% kaolinite (Al2Si2O5(OH)4); about 1 wt% to about 30 wt% tourmaline; about 1 wt% to about 40 wt% aluminum oxide (Al2O3); about 1 wt% to about 40 wt% silicon dioxide (SiO2); and about 1 wt% to about 20 wt% zirconium oxide (ZrO2), further amounts being by total weight of the bioceramic composition. In further or embodiments, a method of preparing an article is provided comprising the steps of: a. preparing a bioceramic solution; and b. applying said coating onto said product; wherein the bioceramic, when heated or exposed to heat, provides a biomodifying or physiological effect upon application of the product to a subject. In further or additional embodiments, a method is provided for preparing a product by applying the solution to the product by spraying techniques to the interior or exterior of the product. In some embodiments, the solution is applied to the product by silk screening techniques, dot application techniques, binder solution application methods, visible repeating pattern methods, or other suitable methods to the interior or exterior of the product, optionally using a dye. In further or additional embodiments, ink is not used in the method. In some embodiments, the solution is applied to the product by dipping or impregnating the product in a suspension or solution. In certain embodiments, the bioceramic solution comprises a polymer. In some embodiments, the polymer comprises a silicone polymer. In further or additional embodiments, the solution is applied to the interior of the product, the exterior of the product, or to specific areas of the product. In one embodiment, the solution is applied to the product as small dots.

[0096] For example, in some embodiments, the bioceramic comprises: a. about 20 wt% to about 80 wt% kaolinite (Al2Si2O5(OH)4); b. about 1 wt.% to about 30 wt.% tourmaline; c. about 1 wt % to about 40 wt % aluminum oxide (Al2O3); d. about 1 wt% to about 40 wt% silicon dioxide (SiO2); and e. about 1 wt. % to about 20 wt. % zirconium oxide (ZrO2); wherein the amount is by total weight of the bioceramic composition.

[0097] In further or additional embodiments, there is provided a bioceramic composition comprising: a. about 40 wt% to about 60 wt% kaolinite (Al2Si2O5(OH)4); b. about 5 wt.% to about 15 wt.% tourmaline; c. about 15% to about 25% by weight aluminum oxide (Al2O3); d. about 10 wt% to about 20 wt% silicon dioxide (SiO2); and e. about 1 wt. % to about 20 wt. % zirconium oxide (ZrO2); wherein the amount is by total weight of the bioceramic composition. In some embodiments, the bioceramic composition comprises in the range of about 45 wt% to about 55 wt% kaolinite. In further or additional embodiments, bioceramic compositions are provided comprising in the range of about 47 wt% to about 53 wt% kaolinite. In further or additional embodiments, bioceramic compositions are provided including in the range of about 48 wt% to about 52 wt% kaolinite.

[0098] In some embodiments, a bioceramic composition is provided that comprises: a. About 50 wt% kaolinite (Al2Si2O5(OH)4); b. about 10 wt% tourmaline; c. about 18 wt% aluminum oxide (Al2O3); d. about 14 wt. % silicon dioxide (SiO2); and e. Approximately 8 wt% zirconium oxide (ZrO2) In some embodiments, the bioceramic composition comprises NaFe 2+ 3Al6Si6O 18 Includes tourmaline containing (BO3)3(OH)3OH.

[0099] In one embodiment, the article is a garment selected from shirts, pants, shorts, dresses, skirts, jackets, hats, underwear, socks, caps, gloves, scarves, diapers, and the like. In yet another embodiment, the article is a precious item selected from bracelets, necklaces, earrings, medallions, pendants, rings, and the like. In yet another embodiment, the article is bedding selected from blankets, sheets, pillows, pillowcases, comforters, duvet covers, mattress covers, mattress pads, and the like. In another embodiment, the article is a body support selected from knee blankets, elbow supports, compression arm sleeves, compression leg sleeves, wrist wraps, and the like.

[0100] In further or additional embodiments, there is provided an article incorporating a bioceramic composition or having a bioceramic applied thereto, the article being selected from clothing, jewelry, patches, pads, shoe insoles, bedding, body supports, foam rollers, lotions, soaps, tapes, glassware, furniture, paints, inks, labels, carpets, mats, food and / or beverage containers, beverage koozies, headwear, footwear, earphones, and combinations thereof. In further or additional embodiments, the article comprises apparel, such as clothing. In some embodiments, the apparel comprises a shirt, a jacket, shorts, or pants. In further embodiments, the apparel comprises a wristband, a pad, a knee bracelet, an anklet, a sleeve, or a patch.

[0101] Optionally, the product further includes one or more additional frequencies imprinted into the product using a frequency generator, i.e., a signal generator that emits an electromagnetic signal (sound or radio waves) at a selected frequency. Examples of commercially available frequency generators include, but are not limited to, Rife Machines (e.g., ProWave 101; F-Scan2; TrueRife F-117; Wellness Pro 2010; Global Wellness; GB4000; GB4000 BCX Ultra, etc.). Typically, the frequency generator generates a selected frequency that is then transmitted to a commercially available frequency imprint plate (e.g., SP9 or SP12 vortex frequency imprint plate) via a connecting cable. In one embodiment, the frequency ranges from about 0.05 Hz to about 20 MHz. In another embodiment, the frequency ranges from about 5 Hz to about 5 MHz. In a further embodiment, the frequency ranges from about 100 Hz to about 0.1 MHz. In yet another embodiment, the frequency ranges from about 1 kHz to about 10 kHz. The product to be imprinted with the selected frequency is exposed to the frequency emitted by the generator. To accomplish this, the product may be placed on an imprinting plate and exposed to the signal at the selected frequency for imprinting. In one embodiment, the imprinting process takes about 5-10 minutes per cycle, depending on the amount of frequency imprinted and the imprinting program selected. In another embodiment, the imprinting process takes about 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10 minutes per cycle, depending on the amount of frequency imprinted and the imprinting program selected. The imprinted product may transmit the frequency imprint to the user after contact with the waves emitted from a bioceramic composition incorporated into the product.

[0102] In some embodiments, the methods of making products comprising the disclosed bioceramics include silicone-based methods. Silicones are typically inert synthetic compounds. The silicone coating may be, for example, an ink, paint, oil, film, coating, grease, or resin that is silk screened, sprayed, or otherwise applied directly to the disclosed products. In some embodiments, the silicone coating is premixed with the bioceramic before being applied to the garment. In some embodiments, the silicone coating is applied as a film onto the bioceramic. In some embodiments, the silicone is mixed with a concentration of the bioceramic composition, where the mixture provides a biomodifying or physiological effect to the subject. In some embodiments, a higher concentration of the bioceramic is mixed with the silicone compared to the concentration of the bioceramic that can be effectively mixed with the ink or gel. In some embodiments, 50% or more of the bioceramic is mixed with the silicone compared to the ink or gel.

[0103] In some embodiments, the disclosed bioceramic compositions include about 1 bioceramic to about 1 silicone, about 1 bioceramic to about 2 silicone, about 1 bioceramic to about 3 silicone, about 1 bioceramic to about 4 silicone, about 1 bioceramic to about 5 silicone, about 1 bioceramic to about 6 silicone, about 1 bioceramic to about 7 silicone, about 1 bioceramic to about 8 silicone, about 1 bioceramic to about 9 silicone, about 1 bioceramic to about 10 silicone, about 1 bioceramic to about 11 silicone, about 1 bioceramic to about 12 silicone, about 1 bioceramic to about 13 silicone, about 1 bioceramic to about 14 silicone, about 1 bioceramic to about 15 silicone, about 1 bioceramic to about 16 silicone, about 1 bioceramic to about 17 silicone, about 1 bioceramic to about 18 silicone, about 1 bioceramic to about 19 silicone, about 20 bioceramic to about 21 silicone, about 21 bioceramic to about 22 silicone, about 22 bioceramic to about 23 silicone, about 22 bioceramic to about 24 silicone, about 22 bioceramic to about 25 silicone, about 22 bioceramic to about 26 silicone, about 22 bioceramic to about 27 silicone, about 22 bioceramic to about 28 silicone, about 22 bioceramic to about 29 silicone, about 23 bioceramic to about 30 silicone, about 23 bioceramic to about 31 silicone, about 23 bioceramic to about 32 silicone, about 23 bioceramic to about 33 silicone, about 23 bioceramic to about 34 silicone, about 23 bioceramic to about 35 silicone, about 23 bioceramic to about 36 silicone, about The bioceramic may be mixed in a ratio of about 1 bioceramic to about 18 silicone, about 19 bioceramic to about 1 silicone, about 20 bioceramic to about 1 silicone, about 21 bioceramic to about 1 silicone, about 22 bioceramic to about 1 silicone, about 23 bioceramic to about 1 silicone, about 24 bioceramic to about 1 silicone, about 25 bioceramic to about 1 silicone, about 26 bioceramic to about 1 silicone, about 27 bioceramic to about 1 silicone, about 28 bioceramic to about 1 silicone, about 29 bioceramic to about 1 silicone, about 30 bioceramic to about 1 silicone, about 31 bioceramic to about 1 silicone, about 32 bioceramic to about 1 silicone, about 33 bioceramic to about 1 silicone, about 34 bioceramic to about 1 silicone, about 35 bioceramic to about 1 silicone, or another suitable ratio.

[0104] In some embodiments, the disclosed bioceramic compositions may include about 1 silicone to about 1 bioceramic, about 1 silicone to about 2 bioceramic, about 1 silicone to about 3 bioceramic, about 1 silicone to about 4 bioceramic, about 1 silicone to about 5 bioceramic, about 1 silicone to about 6 bioceramic, about 1 silicone to about 7 bioceramic, about 1 silicone to about 8 bioceramic, about 1 silicone to about 9 bioceramic, about 1 silicone to about 10 bioceramic, about 1 silicone to about 11 bioceramic, about 1 silicone to about 12 bioceramic, about 1 silicone to about 13 bioceramic, about 1 silicone to about 14 bioceramic, about 1 silicone to about 15 bioceramic, about 1 silicone to about 16 bioceramic, about 1 silicone to about 17 bioceramic, about 1 silicone to about 18 bioceramic, about 1 silicone to about 19 bioceramic, about 1 silicone to about 20 bioceramic, about 1 silicone to about 21 bioceramic, about 1 silicone to about 22 bioceramic, about 1 silicone to about 23 bioceramic, about 1 silicone to about 24 bioceramic, about 1 silicone to about 25 bioceramic, about 1 silicone to about 26 bioceramic, about 1 silicone to about 27 bioceramic, about 1 silicone to about 28 bioceramic, about 1 silicone to about 29 bioceramic, about 1 silicone to about 30 bioceramic, about 1 silicone to about 31 bioceramic, about 1 silicone to about 32 bioceramic, about 1 silicone to about 33 bioceramic, about 1 silicone to about 34 bioceramic, about 1 silicone to about 35 bioceramic, about 1 silicone to about 36 bioceramic, about 1 about 1 bioceramic to about 1 silicone, about 17 bioceramic to about 1 silicone, about 18 bioceramic to about 1 silicone, about 19 bioceramic to about 1 silicone, about 20 bioceramic to about 1 silicone, about 25 bioceramic to about 1 silicone, about 26 bioceramic to about 1 silicone, about 27 bioceramic to about 1 silicone, about 28 bioceramic to about 1 silicone, about 29 bioceramic to about 1 silicone, about 30 bioceramic to about 1 silicone, about 31 bioceramic to about 1 silicone, about 32 bioceramic to about 1 silicone, about 33 bioceramic to about 1 silicone, about 34 bioceramic to about 1 silicone, about 35 bioceramic to about 1 silicone, or another suitable ratio.

[0105] In some embodiments, the methods of making products comprising the disclosed bioceramics include a point application method. In a point application method, dots comprising the bioceramic are applied to the product, either alone or in combination with a matrix. In some embodiments, the matrix is, for example, a silicone matrix, a polymer matrix, or a gel matrix. In some embodiments, the polymer matrix is ​​a harmless carrier for the bioceramic. In some embodiments, the polymer matrix has an active function of determining the amount of infrared energy reflected by the bioceramic. In some embodiments, the polymer is adhesive. In some embodiments, a polymer is used to adhere the bioceramic composition to a textile.

[0106] A variety of polymers may be mixed with the disclosed bioceramics and products, including, for example, silicones, hydrogels such as cross-linked poly(vinyl alcohol) and poly(hydroxyethyl methacrylate), acyl-substituted cellulose acetate and its alkyl derivatives, partially and fully hydrolyzed alkylene vinyl acetate copolymers, unplasticized polyvinyl chloride, cross-linked homopolymers and copolymers of polyvinyl acetate, cross-linked polyesters of acrylic and / or methacrylic acid, polyvinyl alkyl ethers, polyvinyl fluorides, polycarbonates, polyurethanes, polyamides, polysulfones, styrene-acrylonitrile copolymers, cross-linked poly(ethylene oxide), poly(alkylenes), poly(vinylimidazole), poly(esters), poly(ethylene terephthalate), polyphosphazenes, and chlorosulfonated polyolefins, and combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the polymer comprises ethylene vinyl acetate.

[0107] In some embodiments, methods of making products containing the disclosed bioceramics include binder or solution application methods. In some embodiments, the bioceramic composition is sprayed or dipped onto the product (e.g., a shirt, pad, or bandage). In some embodiments, the binder is a film-forming component of a bioceramic paint. In some cases, the binder includes materials that provide adhesion of the bioceramic to the garment and strongly affect properties such as gloss, durability, flexibility, and elasticity of the applied bioceramic. In some embodiments, the binder includes synthetic or natural resins such as alkyl, acrylic, vinyl-acrylic, vinyl acetate / ethylene (VAE), polyurethane, polyester, melamine resin, epoxy, or oil.

[0108] Additional non-erodible materials suitable for incorporating bioceramics into garments include, for example, proteins such as zein, resilin, collagen, gelatin, casein, silk, wool, polyesters, polyorthoesters, polyphosphoesters, polycarbonates, polyanhydrides, polyphosphazenes, polyoxalates, polyamino acids, polyhydroxyalkanoates, polyethylene glycols, polyvinyl acetates, polyhydroxyacids, polyanhydrides, hydrogels including poly(hydroxyethyl), methyl acrylate, polyethylene glycol, poly(N-isopropylacrylamide, poly(N-vinyl-2-pyrrolidone), cellulose polyvinyl alcohol, silicone hydrogels, polyacrylamides, and polyacrylic acids.

[0109] In some embodiments, the disclosed methods of making products containing bioceramics include a visible repeating pattern method. A visible repeating pattern method frequently includes a first step of printing, silk screening, spraying, or another method to apply a pattern to a garment with regular ink (without bioceramic). A visible repeating pattern method frequently includes a second step of applying a second material, such as a spray, silicone, or a binder matrix that includes the bioceramic, onto the first pattern. Optionally, the visible repeating pattern method can use any of the aforementioned materials, including silicones, binders, and polymers.

[0110] The manufacturing methods described herein can be used to apply bioceramics to specific locations within a garment or throughout the entire garment. For example, the manufacturing methods disclosed herein can be used to apply bioceramics to the inside, outside, or any inside / outside combination of a garment. In most embodiments, the application of bioceramics to the inside, outside, or any inside / outside combination of a garment does not affect the biomodifying or physiological effects of the bioceramics.

[0111] In some embodiments, the garment comprises about 5% total bioceramics by weight, about 10% total bioceramics by weight, about 15% total bioceramics by weight, about 20% total bioceramics by weight, about 25% total bioceramics by weight, about 30% total bioceramics by weight, about 35% total bioceramics by weight, about 40% total bioceramics by weight, about 45% total bioceramics by weight, about 50% total bioceramics by weight, about 55% total bioceramics by weight, about 60% total bioceramics by weight, about 65% total bioceramics by weight, about 70% total bioceramics by weight, about 75% total bioceramics by weight, about 80% total bioceramics by weight, about 85% total bioceramics by weight, about 90% total bioceramics by weight, or about 95% total bioceramics by weight.

[0112] In some embodiments, the bioceramic is applied to some or all of the garment. In some cases, the bioceramic composition is applied to 1% or more of the surface area, 5% or more of the surface area, 10% or more of the surface area, 15% or more of the surface area, 20% or more of the surface area, 25% or more of the surface area, 30% or more of the surface area, 35% or more of the surface area, 40% or more of the surface area, 45% or more of the surface area, 50% or more of the surface area, 55% or more of the surface area, 60% or more of the surface area, 65% or more of the surface area, 70% or more of the surface area, 75% or more of the surface area, 80% or more of the surface area, 85% or more of the surface area, 90% or more of the surface area, 95% or more of the surface area, or 99% or more of the surface area.

[0113] In some cases, the bioceramic composition is applied to 1% or less of the surface area, 5% or less of the surface area, 10% or less of the surface area, 15% or less of the surface area, 20% or less of the surface area, 25% or less of the surface area, 30% or less of the surface area, 35% or less of the surface area, 40% or less of the surface area, 45% or less of the surface area, 50% or less of the surface area, 55% or less of the surface area, 60% or less of the surface area, 65% or less of the surface area, 70% or less of the surface area, 75% or less of the surface area, 80% or less of the surface area, 85% or less of the surface area, 90% or less of the surface area, 95% or less of the surface area, or 99% or less of the surface area.

[0114] In some cases, the bioceramic composition comprises 1% of the surface area, 2% of the surface area, 3% of the surface area, 4% of the surface area, 5% of the surface area, 6% of the surface area, 7% of the surface area, 8% of the surface area, about 9% of the surface area, about 10% of the surface area, 11% of the surface area, 12% of the surface area, 13% of the surface area, 14% of the surface area, 15% of the surface area, 16% of the surface area, 17% of the surface area, 18% of the surface area, about 19% of the surface area, about 20% of the surface area, about 21% of the surface area, about 22% of the surface area, about 23% of the surface area, about 24% of the surface area, about 25% of the surface area, about 26% of the surface area, about 27% of the surface area, about 28% of the surface area, about 29% of the surface area, about 30% of the surface area, about 31% of the surface area, about 32% of the surface area, about 33% of the surface area, about 34% of the surface area, about 35% of the surface area, about 36% of the surface area, about 37% of the surface area, about 38% of the surface area, about 39% of the surface area, about 40% of the surface area, about 41% of the surface area, about 42% of the surface area, about 43% of the surface area, about 44% of the surface area, about 45% of the surface area, about 46% of the surface area, about 47% of the surface area, about 48% of the surface area, about 49% of the surface area, about 50% of the surface area, about 51% of the surface area, about 52% of the surface area, about 53% 25% of the surface area, 26% of the surface area, 27% of the surface area, 28% of the surface area, 29% of the surface area, 30% of the surface area, 31% of the surface area, 32% of the surface area, 33% of the surface area, 34% of the surface area, 35% of the surface area, 36% of the surface area, 37% of the surface area, 38% of the surface area, 39% of the surface area, 40% of the surface area, 41% of the surface area, 42% of the surface area, 43% of the surface area, 44% of the surface area, 45% of the surface area, 46% of the surface area, 47% of the surface area, 48% of the surface area, 49% of the surface area, 50% of the surface area, surface 51% of surface area, 52% of surface area, 53% of surface area, 54% of surface area, 55% of surface area, 56% of surface area, 57% of surface area, 58% of surface area, 59% of surface area, 60% of surface area, 61% of surface area, 62% of surface area, 63% of surface area, 64% of surface area, 65% of surface area, 66% of surface area, 67% of surface area, 68% of surface area, 69% of surface area, 70% of surface area, 71% of surface area, 72% of surface area, 73% of surface area, 74% of surface area, 75% of surface area, 76% of surface area, about 77% of the surface area, about 78% of the surface area, about 79% of the surface area, about 80% of the surface area, about 81% of the surface area, 82% of the surface area, about 83% of the surface area, about 84% of the surface area, 85% of the surface area, 86% of the surface area, 87% of the surface area, 88% of the surface area, 89% of the surface area, 90% of the surface area, 91% of the surface area, 92% of the surface area, about 93% of the surface area, about 94% of the surface area, about 95% of the surface area, about 96% of the surface area, about 97% of the surface area, about 98% of the surface area, 99% of the surface area, or about 100% of the surface area of ​​the garment.

[0115] <Cosmetic application> In some aspects, the present invention relates to cosmetic compositions comprising a composite powder, foam, liquid, oil, wax, substrate, or emulsion comprising a far infrared emitting bioceramic. The cosmetic compositions of the present invention may comprise effective amounts of various cosmetic substrates, such as cosmetic lotions, creams, mascaras, masks, gel patches, and general make-up. The disclosed cosmetic compositions may comprise various ratios of bioceramic to cosmetic substrate. For example, the disclosed compositions may have a ratio of Bioceramic 1 to Cosmetic Base 1, a ratio of Bioceramic 1 to Cosmetic Base 2, a ratio of Bioceramic 1 to Cosmetic Base 3, a ratio of Bioceramic 1 to Cosmetic Base 4, a ratio of Bioceramic 1 to Cosmetic Base 5, a ratio of Bioceramic 1 to Cosmetic Base 6, a ratio of Bioceramic 1 to Cosmetic Base 7, a ratio of Bioceramic 1 to Cosmetic Base 8, a ratio of Bioceramic 1 to Cosmetic Base 10, a ratio of Bioceramic 1 to Cosmetic Base 11, a ratio of Bioceramic 1 to Cosmetic Base 12, a ratio of Bioceramic 1 to Cosmetic Base 13, a ratio of Bioceramic 14 to Cosmetic Base 1, a ratio of Bioceramic 1 to Cosmetic Base 15, a ratio of Bioceramic 1 to Cosmetic Base 16, a ratio of Bioceramic 1 to Cosmetic Base 17, a ratio of Bioceramic 1 to Cosmetic Base 18, a ratio of Bioceramic 1 to Cosmetic Base 19, a ratio of Bioceramic 1 to Cosmetic Base 20, a ratio of Bioceramic 1 to Cosmetic Base 21, a ratio of Bioceramic 1 to Cosmetic Base 22, a ratio of Bioceramic 1 to Cosmetic Base 23, a ratio of Bioceramic 1 to Cosmetic Base 24, a ratio of Bioceramic 1 to Cosmetic Base 25, a ratio of Bioceramic 1 to Cosmetic Base 26, a ratio of Bioceramic 1 to Cosmetic Base 27, a ratio of Bioceramic 1 to Cosmetic Base 2 The ratio of bioceramic 1 to cosmetic substrate 16, bioceramic 1 to cosmetic substrate 17, bioceramic 1 to cosmetic substrate 18, bioceramic 1 to cosmetic substrate 19, bioceramic 1 to cosmetic substrate 20, bioceramic 1 to cosmetic substrate 21, bioceramic 1 to cosmetic substrate 22, bioceramic 1 to cosmetic substrate 23, bioceramic 1 to cosmetic substrate 24, bioceramic 1 to cosmetic substrate 25, bioceramic 1 to cosmetic substrate 26, bioceramic 1 to cosmetic substrate 27, bioceramic 1 to cosmetic substrate 28, bioceramic 1 to cosmetic substrate 29, bioceramic 1 to cosmetic substrate 30, or another suitable ratio. In some cases, the disclosed bioceramic compositions may be applied directly to the skin.

[0116] Another aspect of the subject matter described herein is a cosmetic composition, more specifically, a cosmetic composition for reducing facial expression marks, scars, skin blemishes, as well as reducing / controlling eye swelling. A cosmetic composition for reducing the redness of facial expression marks, scars, skin blemishes, as well as reducing / controlling eye swelling may be prepared by adding bioceramics to cosmetic compositions such as lotions, creams, mascaras, masks, gel patches, oils, bases, waxes, emulsifiers, or common makeup powders with various colors. The cosmetic composition provides beneficial biomodifying effects by providing far infrared energy that reduces facial expression marks on the skin, reduces eye swelling, and reduces blemishes, thereby making marks on the skin less noticeable.

[0117] The disclosed compositions may be applied to various skin types. The skin types include normal, oily, dry, sensitive, and combinations thereof. Some people have a combination of skin types in different areas of their skin. The disclosed compositions may be applied to skin types with different levels of a) moisture content, which affects skin comfort and elasticity; b) oil (lipid) content, which may affect skin softness; and c) sensitivity. The disclosed cosmetic compositions may provide far infrared radiation benefits to various skin types. For example, when exposed to drying factors, the skin may crack, peel, or become itchy, irritated, or inflamed. The disclosed cosmetic compositions may help relieve itching, irritation, pain, or inflammation.

[0118] The disclosed compositions can be applied directly or indirectly to the skin. For example, the far-infrared emitting bioceramics can be formulated inside an eye mask that can be worn by a subject to reduce eye swelling. The far-infrared emitting bioceramics can be administered topically and formulated into a variety of topically administrable compositions, such as solutions, suspensions, lotions, gels, pastes, medicated sticks, balms, creams, and ointments. Such pharmaceutical compositions can include solubilizers, stabilizers, isotonicity enhancers, buffers, and preservatives.

[0119] The far-infrared emitting bioceramics may be formulated as oils or emulsions. Suitable lipophilic solvents or vehicles that may be formulated with the bioceramics described herein include fatty oils such as sesame oil, or synthetic fatty acid esters such as ethyl oleate or triglycerides, or liposomes. Aqueous suspensions may contain substances that increase the viscosity of the suspension, such as sodium carboxymethylcellulose, sorbitol, or dextran. The suspensions may also contain suitable stabilizers or agents that increase the solubility of the compounds to allow for the preparation of highly concentrated solutions. Alternatively, the active bioceramic components may be in powder form for constitution with a suitable vehicle, such as sterile pyrogen-free water, before use.

[0120] In some cases, a transdermal patch can provide controlled delivery of far-infrared energy to a subject. For example, the rate of far-infrared absorption can be reduced by using a rate-controlling membrane or by trapping the compound in a polymer matrix or gel. Conversely, an absorption enhancer can be used to increase absorption or far-infrared energy. The absorption enhancer or carrier includes a pharma- ceutically acceptable absorbent solvent to aid passage through the skin. For example, a transdermal device can be in the form of a bandage that includes a support member, a reservoir containing the compound and a carrier, a rate-limiting barrier to deliver the compound to the skin of a subject at a controlled and pre-determined rate over time, and an adhesive to secure the device to the skin.

[0121] Typically, colorants and / or resins may be used with the bioceramic compositions in cosmetic applications. A variety of colorants and resins may be used to form and color cosmetics, including inorganic and organic dyes or pigments. Polymeric materials approved by the Food and Drug Administration as "indirect food additives" may be used as resins for use in makeup compositions that include bioceramics. Non-limiting examples of polymeric materials that may be used as resins for makeup compositions include acrylic plastics and modified acrylic plastics; acrylonitrile / butadiene / styrene copolymers; acrylonitrile / butadiene / styrene / methyl methacrylate copolymers; acrylonitrile / styrene copolymers; acrylonitrile / styrene copolymers modified with butadiene / styrene elastomers; cellophane; copolymers of cyclohexylene dimethylene terephthalate and 1,4-cyclohexylene dimethylene isophthalate; ethylene-acrylic acid copolymers; ethylene-1,4-cyclohexylene dimethylene terephthalate copolymers; ethylene-ethyl acrylate copolymers; ionomer resins; ethylene-methyl acrylate copolymer resins; ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymers; ethylene-vinyl acetate-vinyl alcohol copolymers; fluorocarbon resins; anhydrous Soluble hydroxyethyl cellulose films;Isobutylene polymers;Isobutylene butene copolymers;4,4'-isopropylidenediphenol picrohydrin resins;Melamine-formaldehyde resins;Nitrile rubber modified with acrylonitrile-methyl acrylate copolymers;Nylon resins;Olefin polymers;Perfluorocarbon resins;Polyarylate resins;Polyarylsulfone resins;Poly-1-butene resins and butene / ethylene copolymers;Polycarbonate resins;Polyester elastomers;Polyetherimide resins;Carboxyl-modified polyethylene resins;Chlorinated polyethylene;Fluorinated polyethylene;Oxidized polyethylene;Polyethylene phthalate polymers;Poly(p-methylstyrene) and rubber-modified poly(p-methylstyrene);Polystyrene and rubber-modified polystyrene;Polysulfide polymer-polyepoxy resins;Polysulfone resins;Poly(tetramethylene terephthalate);Polyvinyl alcohol film;Polyurethane resins;Styrene block polymers;Styrene-maleic anhydride copolymers;Styrene-methyl methacrylate copolymers;Textryls;Urea-formaldehyde resins;Vinyl chloride-ethylene copolymers;Vinyl chloride-hexene-1 copolymers;Vinyl chloride-lauryl vinyl ether copolymers;Vinyl chloride-propylene copolymers;Vinylidene chloride / methyl acrylate copolymers;Vinylidene chloride / methyl acrylate / methyl methacrylate polymers;Chlorosulfonated ethylene polymers;4,4'-isopropylidenediphenol-epichlorohydrin thermosetting epoxy resins;Mineral reinforced nylon resins;Perflourocarbon cured elastomers elastomers);phenolic resins;crosslinked polyester resins;chlorinated polyether resins;polyethersulfone resins;polyamide-imide resins;poly(2,6-dimethyl-1,4-phenylene)oxide resins;polyoxymethylene copolymers;polyoxymethylene homopolymers;polyphenylene sulfide resins;polyvinylidene fluoride resins;and crosslinked styrene-divinylbenzene resins.

[0122] Methods for preparing cosmetic compositions containing the compounds described herein include formulating the compounds with one or more inert, pharma- ceutically acceptable excipients or carriers to form solid, semi-solid, foam, wax, cream, lotion, or liquid compositions. Such compositions may also contain minor amounts of non-toxic auxiliary substances, such as wetting or emulsifying agents, pH buffering agents, and other pharma- ceutically acceptable additives.

[0123] <pattern> The bioceramics may be applied to the article of clothing in a variety of regular or irregular patterns. The bioceramic pattern may cover the entire surface of the clothing, or the pattern may cover a portion of the clothing. The bioceramic pattern covering the clothing may have areas of discontinuities with various shapes and sizes. For example, the pattern may be a honeycomb pattern (e.g., with hexagonal areas of discontinuities), a lattice pattern (e.g., with square or rectangular areas of discontinuities), a stripe pattern (e.g., with randomly distributed areas of discontinuities), etc. Typically, the areas of discontinuities may be distributed across the surface at regularly spaced or non-regularly spaced intervals. The areas of discontinuities may be made in a variety of regular or irregular shapes, such as circles, semicircles, diamonds, hexagons, multi-lobal, octagons, ellipses, pentagons, rectangles, squares, stars, trapezoids, triangles, V-shapes, etc. If desired, one or more of the areas of discontinuity may be shaped as a logo, letter, or number. In some embodiments, the areas of discontinuity may have a size of about 0.1 mm, about 1 mm, about 2 mm, about 3 mm, about 4 mm, about 5 mm, about 6 mm, about 7 mm, about 8 mm, about 9 mm, about 10 mm, or other desired distance. In some embodiments, the areas of discontinuity may range from 0.1 mm to about 1 mm, 1 mm to about 5 mm, 1 mm to about 10 mm, 1 mm to about 15 mm, 1 mm to about 20 mm, 1 mm to about 25 mm, 1 mm to about 30 mm, or other desired distance. In general, the areas of discontinuity may have the same or different shapes or sizes.

[0124] The bioceramic pattern may be applied as a coating covering the interior and / or exterior surfaces of the article of clothing. The bioceramic pattern may infiltrate a material such as a textile. The bioceramic pattern may cover various portions of the textile in a continuous, non-continuous, regular, irregular pattern, or combinations thereof. The bioceramic pattern may infiltrate less than 1%, less than 5%, less than 10%, less than 15%, less than 20%, less than 25%, less than 30%, less than 35%, less than 40%, less than 45%, less than 50%, less than 55%, less than 60%, less than 65%, less than 70%, less than 75%, less than 80%, less than 85%, less than 90%, less than 95%, or less than 99% of the interior surface of the article of clothing, the exterior surface of the article of clothing, or any combination thereof.

[0125] The following non-limiting examples serve to further illustrate the invention. EXAMPLES

[0126] Example 1: Preparation of a bioceramic powder composition Kaolinite is obtained on the outskirts of the city of Parintins, Brazilian Amazon State, located in the Lower Amazon Region (coordinates: latitude: 2°37'42” south / longitude: 56°44'11” west of Greenwich, 50m above sea level). Alternatively, kaolinite is obtained by purchasing it from a mining company / supplier.

[0127] The resulting kaolinite is washed with hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and dried. The dried kaolinite is then finely ground and mixed with tourmaline; aluminum oxide (Al2O3); silicon dioxide (SiO2); and zirconium oxide (ZrO2) until a homogenous mixture is achieved. The resulting bioceramic composition includes 50 wt% kaolinite, 10 wt% tourmaline, 18 wt% aluminum oxide, 14 wt% silicon dioxide, and 8 wt% zirconium oxide.

[0128] Bioceramic compositions have also been synthesized, including any of the compositions described herein, and containing about 50% kaolinite, about 10% tourmaline, about 18% aluminum oxide, about 14% silicon dioxide, and about 8% zirconium oxide.

[0129] <Example 2: Application to clothing> The disclosed bioceramics are refractory, inorganic, polycrystalline compositions that can be ground, crushed, or otherwise suitable into a powdered configuration. In powder form, the bioceramics can be incorporated into a variety of materials; including various types of polymers and inks. The powdered bioceramics are incorporated into the garment substrate by applying an ink containing the bioceramic to the garment.

[0130] A clothing substrate was obtained containing 88 wt% polyamide and 12 wt% elastane. The bioceramic composition prepared according to the method of Example 1 was incorporated and mixed into a plastisol ink in an amount of 10-50 wt%. The mixture was applied to the clothing substrate using a conventional silk screen process. The specific type of ink was selected based on the textile fabric chosen.

[0131] Example 3: Silkscreen application of bioceramics to clothing (e.g., shirts) Concentrated: The ceramic material is mixed with the ink at a concentration of 30% of the total weight / volume.

[0132] Mixing process: The ceramic was gradually added to the ink. A regular mixing process was applied using a mixer that is customarily used for mixing pigments and inks. The materials are mixed until a consistent and homogenous mixture / slurry is achieved. The process was fast enough to mix the ceramic well with all the different types of inks.

[0133] Durability of Slurry / Mixture: The mixture was stored well sealed and used within one week of production.

[0134] Application: Bioceramic material was applied in the same way as regular ink via silk screening process. It was observed that ceramic material may scratch the screen due to its particle size. It is recommended to check / inspect the screen every 1000 shirts and replace it if necessary to avoid chipping especially after application and visual defects of logo.

[0135] Fabric Selection: The ceramics did not cause any observable damage to the fabric. It was observed that fabrics that were too porous or could not undergo the regular drying process commonly used in silk screening should be avoided.

[0136] Ink Selection: The ceramic increases the density of the ink and the type of ink must be selected by the artisan based on the type of fabric being used.

[0137] Drying process after silk screening: It has been observed that drying may take longer than usual due to the fact that ceramics may contain small amounts of moisture. The duration and intensity of the process depends on the type of fabric and ink selected. After the first experimental run with the fabric and ink selected, the product must be subjected to a washing test to ensure that the ink does not peel off or smudge.

[0138] A silk screening process is used to provide the ceramic on the garment in the desired pattern. A silk screening method is used to insert an imprint of the pattern on the shirt. Figure 1 shows a shirt containing the disclosed ceramic composition made by silk screening application.

[0139] Example 4: Method for spot-applying bioceramics to clothing (e.g., shirts) Concentration: The ceramic material is mixed with a silicone or polymer, such as m-gel, in a ratio of 1 part ceramic to 9 parts silicone. Alternatively, the ceramic material is mixed with a polymer, such as m-gel, in a ratio of 1 part ceramic to 9 parts m-gel.

[0140] Application: A device was used to apply ceramic dots to the fabric in the desired pattern. For example, to insert a pattern into a shirt, the dot application method is used. Figure 1 shows a shirt containing the disclosed ceramic composition.

[0141] Fabric Selection: The ceramic does not cause any observable damage to the fabric. A dot application method is used to apply the bioceramic to specific areas of the fabric or garment. In some instances, a dot application method is used to apply the ceramic to a piece of specific area on top of a silk screen to achieve a higher concentration of ceramic per surface area. A dot application method is used around the shoulders, elbows, or any area where a higher concentration of ceramic is desired.

[0142] Example 5: Method of applying bioceramic binder / solution to clothing (e.g., shirt) Concentrated: Instead of mixing the ceramic into the ink and instead of using silk screen or dot application to apply the ceramic to the fabric, a binder solution method is used. The binder solution contains up to 50% ceramic, up to 50% binder solution or slurry.

[0143] Application: The textile is placed in a slurry solution containing the ceramic and binder at the desired concentration. The textile is removed from the slurry solution and dried. The textile is now saturated or infused with the disclosed ceramic. The ceramic-saturated or infused textile is placed directly in contact with the skin of a subject.

[0144] Example 6: Method for Visible Repeating Patterns of Bioceramics on Clothing (e.g., Shirts) Concentration: A first solution containing an ink is prepared. A second solution, slurry, or binder containing about 10% to about 50% ceramic is prepared by mixing the disclosed ceramic with the ink, slurry, or binder.

[0145] Application: A first pattern is sprayed, printed, silk screened, or otherwise applied to the textile. The first pattern consists of ink and does not include bioceramic material. A second pattern, containing about 10% to about 50% ceramic, is subsequently sprayed, printed, silk screened, or otherwise applied onto the surface of the first pattern. Optionally, a silicone coating is applied to the second pattern to provide a glossy appearance to the pattern applied to the textile. Optionally, the silicone coating is mixed with a concentration of ceramic before being applied as a coating.

[0146] <Example 7: Pad fabrication> A thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) is liquefied with the disclosed bioceramic. The TPE and ceramic are mixed at a concentration of about 1 part TPE to about 1 part ceramic, about 2 parts TPE to about 1 part ceramic, about 3 parts TPE to about 1 part ceramic, about 4 parts TPE to about 1 part ceramic, about 5 parts TPE to about 1 part ceramic, about 6 parts TPE to about 1 part ceramic, about 7 parts TPE to about 1 part ceramic, about 8 parts TPE to about 1 part ceramic, or about 9 parts TPE to about 1 part ceramic. The liquefied mixture is placed in a mold. The TPE and bioceramic mixture is allowed to solidify to give the garment the shape of the mold. The garment is removed from the mold. The garment is a thermoplastic pad containing a bioceramic, such as the pad shown in FIG. 3.

[0147] Example 8: Bioceramics as anti-inflammatory and cytokine modulating agents. Mice in the laboratory are administered an injection of the bioceramic composition of Example 1. On the fifth day after CFA injection (after five consecutive bioceramic treatments), the right hind paws of the mice are collected and used to estimate cytokine levels by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), with sample values ​​corrected for protein levels. Optionally, the following cytokines are evaluated individually or as a group: TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-10, and IL-6. Absorbance for the aforementioned cytokines can be measured using a microplate reader at 450 and 550 nm. Cytokine levels in mice can be determined to confirm the anti-inflammatory effect of the bioceramic composition.

[0148] Example 9: Determination of oxidative stress and antioxidant enzyme levels Laboratory mice are administered injections of the bioceramic composition of Example 1.

[0149] Five days after CFA injection, tissues (skin and muscle) from the right hind paw of mice can be collected and used to assess oxidative damage. For this test, the formation of thiobarbituric acid reactive species (TBARS) is measured during an acid-heating reaction. Samples are mixed with 1 mL of trichloroacetic acid (TCA) 10% and 1 mL of thiobarbituric acid 0.67%, then heated in a boiling water bath for 15 minutes. TBARS levels are determined by absorbance at 535 nm. Results are expressed as malondialdehyde (MDA) equivalents (nmol / mg protein).

[0150] Oxidative damage to proteins is measured by quantification of carbonyl groups based on reaction with dinitrophenylhydrazine (DNPH) as previously described. Proteins are precipitated by addition of 20% trichloroacetic acid and optionally redissolved in DNPH; absorbance is read at 370 nm. Results are reported as nmol carbonyl content per mg protein (nmol / mg protein) or can be reported using another appropriate unit.

[0151] To determine catalase (CAT) activity, foot tissue is sonicated in 50 mmol / L phosphate buffer (pH 7.0) and the resulting suspension is centrifuged at 3000 x g for 10 min. The supernatant is used for the enzyme assay. CAT activity is measured by the rate of decrease in hydrogen peroxide absorption at 240 nm. Results are reported as (U / mg protein) or other appropriate units.

[0152] Superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity is assayed by measuring the inhibition of adrenaline autooxidation as previously described. All biochemical measures are normalized to protein content with bovine albumin as standard. All results are normalized by protein concentration measured by the Lowry assay. Results are reported as (U / mg protein) or other appropriate units.

[0153] Example 10: Effects of far infrared radiation emitted by bioceramics on parameters of physical performance in mice. Objective: To evaluate the effect of treatment with far-infrared radiation emitted by bioceramics on parameters of physical performance in mice subjected to a swimming protocol.

[0154] Methods: After approval by the University of South of Santa Catarina Ethics Committee, experiments were performed with male Swiss mice (30-35g). Mice were randomly divided into two groups and subjected to a 30-minute swimming protocol for 21 days. For treatment, a bioceramic pad (80% BioCorn PVC-20% bioceramic material) containing the composition described in Example 1 was placed in the animal's box for 3 weeks. Control animals were placed on a sham pad (100% BioCorn PVC without bioceramic) and subjected to the same experimental protocol. At the end of each week, body weight and food and water intake were measured, and an exhaustion test was performed, in which mice were forced to swim until exhaustion with a load of 5% of their body weight tied to their tail. The point of exhaustion was measured when the mice could not keep their head above the water for more than 5 seconds. At the end of the third week, grip strength measurements were performed on the right hind limb using a strain gauge force feedback system, and gastrocnemius muscle weight was evaluated on an analytical scale.

[0155] Results: Far infrared radiation emitted by bioceramic pads incorporating the composition of Example 1 increased the time to exhaustion in the forced swimming test (133.1%, 60.4%, and 90.83% in weeks 1-3) but did not affect body weight, water, or food consumption. Gastrocnemius muscle weight was not affected, but the bioceramic of Example 1 increased hind paw grip strength by 6.6%.

[0156] Conclusion: Far infrared treatment emitted by the bioceramic of Example 1 increased hind paw grip strength and time to fatigue in mice subjected to a 3-week swimming protocol. These results indicate an increase in resistance, muscle endurance, and overall stamina (energy levels).

[0157] Example 11: Far-infrared therapy emitted by bioceramics improves postural tilt in human athletes. Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of far-infrared therapy emitted by bioceramics on orthostatic balance in judo practitioners (judokas) of a Brazilian university team in a double-blind controlled trial.

[0158] Methods: A total of 17 athletes (7 females and 10 males; age 23±4.75) from the University of South of Santa Catarina (UNISUL) wore a bioceramic shirt (shirt silk-screened with bioceramic) containing the composition of the shirt of Example 1 or a sham shirt (no bioceramic) during training (2 h training 5 times a week for a period of 5 months). The judo athletes belonged to 7 different weight classes and were evenly divided into two experimental groups (bioceramic or sham shirt) so that each group had approximately the same amount of athletes from each weight class. Center of pressure (CoP) parameters (length in anterior-posterior and medial-lateral directions, area of ​​tilt, velocity) were measured in three 30 sec duration static bipedal standing tasks, where the athletes were asked to keep their eyes open and stand in a cramped position on a Balance Platform (T-Plate Balance Platform, Medicapteurs, France). Evaluations were conducted before and after five months of use of the bioceramic shirt.

[0159] RESULTS: As a result, a demonstrated statistically significant reduction (p<0.05) was obtained in all evaluated CoP parameters (length, area of ​​inclination, velocity in anterior-posterior and mediolateral directions) in athletes in the bioceramic shirt group compared to the sham shirt group.

[0160] Conclusion: Treatment with far infrared radiation emitted by the bioceramic shirt containing the composition of Example 1 had a positive effect on the orthostatic balance of judo practitioners of the Brazilian university team.

[0161] Example 12: Far-infrared radiation emitted by bioceramics reduces mechanical and thermal hypersensitivity in an animal model of chronic inflammatory pain. Objective: This study evaluated the effect of far infrared radiation emitted by the bioceramic composition of Example 1 incorporated into a pad on mechanical and thermal hypersensitivity, as well as on paw temperature increase and edema formation in a mouse model of inflammatory pain.

[0162] Methods: After approval by the University of South of Santa Catarina Ethics Committee, experiments were performed on male Swiss mice (30-35 g). The animals received an intraplantar injection of Freud's complete adjuvant (CFA, 20 μl-70%) and a bioceramic pad (80% BioCorn PVC-20% bioceramic material) was placed in the animal's box for treatment. 24 hours after exposure to the products, mechanical and thermal hypersensitivity was evaluated as the frequency of responses to 10 presentations of a 0.4 g von Frey filament or by heat stimulation (Hot Plate Method) applied to the right hind paw of the animals. Evaluations were performed daily for 10 days. After the evaluation, the animals were placed in the box and resubmitted to the pad until the later evaluation (24 hours later). In addition, edema formation and hind paw temperature were evaluated on days 1, 3, and 10 of the experiment by a micrometer and a digital thermometer, respectively. Control animals were placed on sham pads (100% BioCorn PVC without bioceramic) and subjected to the same experimental protocol.

[0163] Results: Acute exposure to the bioceramic pad induced analgesia that lasted for 2 h (P<0.001-maximal inhibition of 53±11%). Chronic treatment reduced mechanical hypersensitivity on all evaluation days and thermal hypersensitivity on days 1 and 3. In addition, treatment reduced paw temperature by 8±1% (P<0.001) and 5±1% (P<0.05) on days 1 and 3, but did not affect edema formation.

[0164] Conclusion: Far-infrared radiation emitted by a bioceramic pad reduced mechanical and thermal hypersensitivity of inflammatory origin as well as paw temperature increase induced by intraplantar injection of CFA in mice.

[0165] Example 13: A randomized, double-blind, controlled study with a University Division I soccer team to evaluate physical fitness parameters.

[0166] Objective: To evaluate the effects of a bioceramic-imprinted training uniform on lung capacity, back and leg muscle strength, and cardiorespiratory endurance.

[0167] Design: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study on 30 healthy soccer players. Each participant was randomized via a created manual to wear the training uniform containing the bioceramic composition of Example 1 or a fake training uniform during normal training sessions, as well as to wear the bioceramic or fake band throughout the day. Both groups were assessed once every 4 weeks on a pre-defined day before the start of that day's training.

[0168] Test Method and Results (a) Lung capacity Vital capacity was assessed by a spirometer (Model SP-10). Parameters assessed were forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1), and peak expiratory flow (PEF). Forced vital capacity (FVC) is the volume of air that can be forcibly expelled after a complete inspiration, measured in liters. FVC is the most fundamental maneuver in spirometry testing. FEV1 is the volume of air that can be forcibly expelled in 1 second after a complete inspiration. Peak expiratory flow (PEF) is the maximum flow (or speed) achieved during a maximal forced breath initiated at a complete inspiration, measured in liters per minute. (b) Back and leg strength Leg and back muscle strength was measured using a back / leg dynamometer (Baseline, United States). Using a pronation grip, participants held the handlebars of the device and slowly straightened their legs to their maximum level. (c) Cardiopulmonary compatibility Cardiorespiratory fitness was assessed via a standardized 3-minute exercise test (predetermined with the team coach). The cardiorespiratory endurance index was derived from the post-test heart rate recovery according to the following formula: Cardiorespiratory endurance index=exercise time (sec)×100 / total heart rate during recovery period / 2. Total heart rate during recovery period is the sum of the heart rate during three periods following the test: 1-1.5 min, 2-2.5 min, and 3-3.5 min.

[0169] Conclusion: The results show that in all the different parameters analyzed, athletes wearing bioceramic technology presented better overall results compared to athletes wearing sham equipment.

[0170] Example 14: Effects of far infrared radiation emitted by bioceramics on clinical measurements of physical fitness Objective: To evaluate the effects of treatment with far-infrared light emitted by a bioceramic on flexibility, grip strength, and respiratory capacity in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study of 9-12 basketball players (ages 18-22) at Florida Atlantic University.

[0171] Methods: Each participant was randomized to wear either a bioceramic shirt (a shirt silk-screened with bioceramic) containing the bioceramic of Example 1 or a sham shirt (no bioceramic). A baseline evaluation was conducted in week 1. The players wore the jerseys three times a week during practice time from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm. Both groups were evaluated once a week on Wednesdays for three consecutive weeks during the first hour of practice that day. In the second round of the study, the groups were swapped. The group that had been wearing the sham BioPower practice uniform was selected to wear the BioPower shirt seven days a week (all day), and the group that had previously worn the BioPower uniform was stopped wearing the technology and served as the control. Both groups were evaluated once a week on Wednesdays for three consecutive weeks during the first hour of practice that day.

[0172] Flexibility was measured by the long sitting forward bending test (Novel Flex-Tester® Sit & Reach Box). For the assessment, each subject was asked to sit on the floor with their knees horizontal to the floor and the box horizontal to the sole of their feet. The subject then reached their hands towards the box and moved the distance measuring device as far as possible. The average of the three measurements was used for the analysis.

[0173] Subjects were measured for dominant hand grip strength with elbow extension using a Baseline Smedley Digital Spring Hand Dynamometer. The average score of three tests was recorded for analysis.

[0174] Respiratory capacity was assessed by a spirometer (Model SP-10). The parameters assessed were forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1), and peak expiratory flow (PEF). The best of the three measurements was used for the analysis. Forced vital capacity (FVC) is the volume of air that can be forcibly ejected after a complete inspiration, measured in liters. Forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) is the volume of air that can be forcibly ejected in 1 second after a complete inspiration. Peak expiratory flow (PEF) is the maximum flow (or speed) achieved during a maximal forced breath initiated at a complete inspiration, measured in liters per minute.

[0175] The result: flexibility.

[0176] Figure 3 is a graph showing a non-limiting example of the effect of a bioceramic of the present disclosure on flexibility. In the first round of testing, the use of the bioceramic did not affect flexibility compared to baseline levels (Figure 3, Panel A). In the second round of testing, the use of the bioceramic technology increased flexibility by 5.5% and 14.1% at the first and second weeks of continuous use, respectively, compared to baseline levels. Flexibility was not affected in the group of athletes not wearing the technology (Figure 3, Panel B).

[0177] Grip strength: In the first round of the study, the use of the bioceramic increased grip strength by 5.6% at the second week of continuous use relative to the baseline level. Grip strength in the control group did not change from one assessment to the other (Figure 3, Panel C). In the second round of the study, compared to the baseline level, the use of the bioceramic technology increased grip strength by 10.8% and 10.9% at the first and second weeks of continuous use, respectively (Figure 3, Panel D). On the other hand, in the group consisting of athletes who wore the technology for 2 weeks (in the first round of the study) and then stopped using it, grip strength decreased by 7.23% and 13.51% at the first and second weeks of continuous use, respectively (Figure 3, Panel D).

[0178] Respiratory volume: Figures 4 and 5 are graphs showing non-limiting examples of the effect of the disclosed bioceramics on respiratory volume. Figure 4 shows non-limiting examples of the effect of the disclosed bioceramics on forced vital capacity (FVC) and forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1). Figure 4 shows non-limiting examples of the effect of the disclosed bioceramics on peak expiratory flow (PEF). In round 1 of the study, use of the bioceramics increased FVC (5.8% - Figure 4, Panel A) and FEV1 (5.9% - Figure 3, Panel C) but did not affect PEF (Figure 5, Panel A) compared to baseline levels. Control group FVC, FEV1, and PEF decreased from one assessment to the other (Figures 4, Panels A and C, and 5, Panel A). In the second round of the study, compared to baseline levels, the use of the bioceramic technology increased FVC (5.8% at week 2 - FIG. 4, panel B); FEV1 (15% and 10% at weeks 1 and 2, respectively - FIG. 4, panel D), as well as PEF (52.77% and 50.9% at weeks 1 and 2, respectively - FIG. 5, panel B). In the group made up of athletes who had worn the technology for 2 weeks (in the first round of the study) and had stopped using it, FVC and FEV1 fluctuated from one evaluation to the other (FIG. 4, panels B and D, respectively), while PEF, on the other hand, decreased by 19.7% at week 1 and 23.3% at week 2 of the evaluation (FIG. 5, panel B).

[0179] Conclusion: Far-infrared therapy emitted by a bioceramic shirt increased flexibility, grip strength, and respiratory capacity in healthy basketball players at Florida Atlantic University. Continuous long-term use produced the most significant results.

[0180] Example 15: Effects of bioceramic-imprinted clothing on muscular and cardiopulmonary endurance in athletes. Objective: To evaluate the effect of bioceramic imprinted training clothing (shirts and shorts) on muscular and cardiorespiratory endurance in athletes.

[0181] Testing Methods and Results: Each participant wore the bioceramic shirt / shorts during practice (3 times per week - 120 min training sessions). In addition, participants wore the bioceramic shirt 6-8 hours per day, 7 days per week. Evaluations were performed once a week on Mondays. (a) Muscular endurance Muscle endurance was measured with a push-up test. Subjects were asked to (1) lie face down on the floor with hands slightly wider than shoulder width apart and (2) lift themselves off the floor by straightening their body and extending their arms. The maximum number of push-ups performed until fatigue was used to represent muscle endurance.

[0182] Figure 6 shows the effect of bioceramics on human muscle endurance. The data presented in Figure 6 demonstrate that the maximum number of push-ups performed by the athletes gradually increased. The best increase compared to the evaluation performed without the use of bioceramics was obtained in week n#4 (13.95%). Figure 6 shows the results of the experiment, N=5. The numbers above the bars indicate the increase compared to the control "without BioPower" weeks. (b) Cardiopulmonary endurance Cardiorespiratory endurance was assessed via a standardized test with minimal changes. The cardiorespiratory endurance index was derived from the post-test heart rate recovery according to the following formula: Cardiorespiratory endurance index = exercise time (sec) x 100 / total heart rate during recovery period / 2. The total heart rate during recovery period was measured at three times after the test: 1-1.5 min, 2-2.5 min, and 3-3.5 min. 2 The heart rate was the sum of the heart rates during the 10-minute warm-up session and the 1-minute push-up test described in section 3.2. Two evaluations were performed: first, after a 10-minute warm-up session, and second, after the 1-minute push-up test described in section 3.2. A standardized time of 3 minutes was used for the calculations in order to standardize the results of both tests for easier comparison. Figure 7 shows the effect of bioceramics on human cardiorespiratory endurance. Figure 7 shows the results of the experiment, N=5. Figure 7 (Panel A) shows the results of the evaluation performed after the warm-up session. Figure 7 (Panel B) shows the results of the evaluation performed after the push-up session. The numbers above the bars indicate the increase compared to the control during the "no BioPower" week.

[0183] The results shown in Figure 7 show that the use of bioceramics increased cardiopulmonary indices in all assessments performed after both the warm-up (Figure 7, Panel A) and the push-up session (Figure 7, Panel B). The largest increase compared to the assessments performed without the use of bioceramics occurred in week n#3 (6.10% and 7.69%).

[0184] Conclusion: The results show that the use of bioceramic imprinted garments helped increase muscular and cardiorespiratory endurance in five MMA fighters.

[0185] Example 16: Effect of bioceramic paint on CFA-induced mechanical hypersensitivity Objective: To evaluate the use of a bioceramic coating comprising the composition of Example 1 against CFA-induced mechanical hypersensitivity.

[0186] Methods: Experiments were performed on adult male Swiss mice weighing 25-35 g, housed at 22°C under a 12-h light / 12-h dark cycle (lights on at 06:00) with free access to food and water. Experiments were performed after approval by the Ethics Committee of the Universidade do Sul de Santa Catarina (UNISUL). Animals (n=8) received an intraplantar (right hind paw) injection of a solution containing 20 μl of Freund's complete adjuvant (CFA, 70%). For treatment, bioceramic paint (concentrations of 10 and 20%) was applied to the bottom of the animal's box. 24 hours after exposure, mechanical nociceptive thresholds were evaluated as the frequency of responses to 10 presentations of a 0.4 g von Frey filament applied to the right hind paw of the animals. Evaluations were also performed on the second and third days after CFA injection.

[0187] Results: The results show that i.pl. injection of CFA induced mechanical hypernociception that was significantly reduced by exposure to bioceramic paint (20% but not 10% bioceramic concentration) applied to the bottom of the animal's box. The effect lasted up to 4 hours (days 2 and 3). Figure 8 shows the effect of bioceramic paint on mechanical hypersensitivity induced by CFA. For eight individual assessments, the vertical lines represent the SEM. * p<0.05 is shown. Figure 9 shows the bioceramic paint.

[0188] Conclusion: Bioceramic paint reduced mechanical hypersensitivity induced by CFA injection into the paw.

[0189] Example 17: Far-infrared radiation emitted by ceramic materials increases paw temperature and reduces mechanical hypersensitivity and knee edema in a rat model of monoiodoacetate-induced osteoarthritis. Objective: This study investigated the effects of far-infrared radiation emitted by ceramic materials on skin temperature, paw mechanical hypersensitivity, and knee edema in a rat model of osteoarthritis induced by monoiodoacetate (MIA).

[0190] Methods: Experiments were performed on male Winsar rats (200-250 g) anesthetized with a mixture of ketamine and xylazine (50 and 10 mg / kg, respectively, ip). Joint damage was induced by a single intra-articular injection of MIA (1 mg / 50 μl; Sigma UK - disrupts glycolysis resulting in chondrocyte death) through the infrapatellar ligament of the right knee. Control animals received a single dose of saline (50 μl). Three separate measurements were evaluated: (1) thermal analysis of the central area of ​​the animal's forepaw (using a handheld ThermaCAM® E320 infrared camera (Flir, Sweden) with 320×240 pixel resolution, thermal sensitivity of <0.10° C. at 25° C., and accuracy of ±2° C., positioned 0.5 m from the animal's paw. The infrared images were analyzed with FLIR QuickReport 1.2 software); (2) mechanical withdrwal threshold of the hindpaw, providing an index of central sensitization (using von Frey monofilaments, Semmes-Weinstein monofilaments with bending force of 1-15 g); and (3) edema formation (measured with a digital caliper (Pantec, Brazil)), which is directly related to the local inflammatory response. For treatment, a bioceramic pad (80% BioCorn PVC-20% ceramic material) containing the bioceramic of Example 1 was placed in the animal's box. Control animals were placed on sham pads (100% BioCorn PVC without ceramic) and subjected to the same experimental protocol.

[0191] Results: On day 3 after MIA injection, acute exposure (2 h) to the bioceramic pad increased paw temperature (± 4°C), but only chronic exposure to the treatment (days 7 and 10 after MIA) reduced mechanical hypersensitivity (p<0.001) and knee edema (p<0.001).

[0192] Conclusions: Far-infrared radiation emitted by ceramic materials increased paw temperature (after acute exposure), whereas only long-term treatment reduced mechanical hypersensitivity and knee edema in a rat model of MIA-induced osteoarthritis.

[0193] Example 18: Far infrared radiation emitted by bioceramics reduced inflammatory-induced hypernociception in mice. Objective: The goal of this study was to evaluate the effect of far infrared radiation emitted / reflected by the bioceramic in pads incorporating the bioceramic of Example 1 on pain of inflammatory origin, as well as on increased paw temperature and edema formation in an experimental model of inflammation in mice.

[0194] Methods: Experiments were performed with adult male Swiss mice weighing 25-35 g, housed at 22°C under a 12-h light / 12-h dark cycle (lights on at 06:00) with free access to food and water. The experiments were performed after approval by the Ethics Committee of the Universidade do Sul de Santa Catarina (UNISUL). Animals (n=8) received an intraplantar (right hind paw) injection of a solution containing 20 μl of Freund's complete adjuvant (CFA, 70%). For the treatment, a bioceramic pad was placed in the animal's box. 24 hours after exposure to the product, the mechanical nociceptive threshold was evaluated as the response frequency to 10 presentations of a 0.4 g von Frey filament applied to the right hind paw of the animals. Evaluations were performed daily for 10 days, and after each evaluation the animals were returned to the box and resubmitted to the pad until the next evaluation (24 hours later). In addition, the volume (edema formation) and temperature of the right hind paw were assessed by a Pleithsmometer and a digital thermometer on days 1, 3, and 10 of the experiment, respectively. Control animals were placed on a sham pad consisting of 100% BioCorn PVC (without bioceramic) and subjected to the same experimental protocol.

[0195] Results: The results show that i.pl. injection of CFA induced mechanical hypernociception that was significantly reduced by acute exposure to a bioceramic pad containing the bioceramic of Example 1. Analgesia lasted for up to 2 hours with a peak effect 30 minutes after treatment (P<0.001-53±11% maximum inhibition). Chronic treatment with the bioceramic pad reduced mechanical hypernociception on all evaluation days. In addition, treatment significantly reduced paw temperature by 8±1% (P<0.001) and 5±1% (P<0.05) on days 1 and 3, respectively, when compared to the control group.

[0196] Conclusions: The bioceramic pad significantly reduced inflammatory-caused mechanical suprarenal pain as well as paw temperature rise induced by intraplantar injection of CFA in mice.

[0197] Example 19: Use of bioceramics emitting far infrared energy in the treatment of human diseases. Bioceramics that emit far infrared energy are used to regulate or treat one or more of the following: pain, muscle endurance, stamina, muscle strength, cardiopulmonary endurance, respiratory capacity, flexibility, cellular metabolism, analgesia, cellular oxidation, fibromyalgia, inflammation, oxidative stress, blood circulation, intolerance to cold environments, arthritis, or vascular disease, skin perfusion, cardiac arrhythmias, high blood pressure, tissue injury, aesthetic effects such as reduction of cellulite in a subject, and improved quality of life.

[0198] Methods: Subjects wear the disclosed clothing containing bioceramics for at least 6 weeks. The following parameters or endpoints, alone or in combination, are used to measure the efficacy of the clothing products soaked with infrared emitting ceramic materials in treating human subjects suffering from the diseases disclosed herein: a) quality of life, sleep patterns, depression, and anxiety; b) pain, strength, and flexibility; c) balance and distribution of standing pressure; d) pressure (measured by activity of the autonomic, sympathetic, and parasympathetic nervous systems); e) body surface temperature; f) inflammatory mediators (anti-inflammatory and pro-inflammatory cytokines); or g) Oxidative stress and antioxidant systems.

[0199] Bioceramic treatment: T-shirts or pads soaked with BioPower® brand infrared emitting bioceramic material or control T-shirts are distributed among the groups. Patients are instructed to wear the garments containing the ceramic material all day, overnight, or while sleeping. Treatments are administered for approximately three consecutive months. Figure 10 shows a human subject wearing an exemplary T-shirt or pad containing the disclosed ceramic.

[0200] Endpoints: Some of the following endpoints, alone or in combination, will be used to quantify the effect of the bioceramic material on the subject: a) grip strength assessment; b) flexibility assessment; c) thermography; d) pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokine assessment; e) antioxidant assessment, assessment of markers of oxidative stress; or f) questionnaire.

[0201] Grip strength assessment: A dynamometer is used as an instrument for grip strength assessment. The working principle of the dynamometer relies on the deformation undergone by a spring due to the action of a force. The force intensity is graded, so the dynamometer is a useful method for measuring the force of some subjects. The dynamometer is particularly useful for measuring the force intensity of human subjects suffering from, for example, fibromyalgia, since the dynamometer measurement takes into account the common and predominant muscle fatigue in the upper limb (UL) and appendicular skeleton compared to axial upper limb studies.

[0202] Flexibility assessment: Flexibility assessment is measured with the Third Finger-Soil test. This device measures the overall flexibility of the subject with regard to the subject's flexibility when standing upright, the subject's ability to bring their feet together, and the maximum flexibility of the subject's trunk without bending the knees. This measurement is performed with the subject's head at rest, and the distance between the ground and the ring toe of the foot is measured with a tape measure on the right or left side. Subjects who can touch the ground are considered to have good flexibility.

[0203] Thermographic assessment: Thermography is a useful technique for the analysis of excess radiation points in infrared images, since it allows the detection of thermographic images on the epidermis of a subject, such as human skin. This technique is optionally performed on a human subject standing without clothing, with arms stretched along the sides of the body without touching the body. The temperature is maintained at approximately 20°C throughout the procedure. Before capturing the images, the subject is asked to rest for 15 minutes to allow the body temperature to acclimate to the controlled room temperature.

[0204] Assessment of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines: Blood samples are collected and prepared for analysis by centrifugation (IL-10, IL-6, IL-1βe, TNF-α). Serum is processed for cytokine analysis. Serum may be optionally stored frozen at -80°C for up to one year. Serum is analyzed by immunoassay (pg / dL) (Sandwich ELISA) using a commercial kit to determine cytokine concentrations. Those skilled in the art will recognize that other methods known in the art can optionally be used to assess pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokine levels.

[0205] Antioxidant assessment and oxidative stress assessment:

[0206] a) Thiobarbituric acid-Substances reactive to TBARS: To determine the effect of bioceramics on the modulation of oxidative stress, samples containing serum lipids are taken from subjects. Samples are analyzed by heating them in an acidic reaction with TBARS. (Esterbauer, H., Cheeseman, KH Determination of aldehydic lipid peroxidation products: malonaldehyde and 4-hydroxynonenal. Methods Enzymol, v. 186, p. 407-421, 1990). Briefly, serum is mixed with 1 mL of 10% trichloroacetic acid and 1 mL of 0.67% thiobarbituric acid, then placed in a boiling water bath for 15 minutes. Absorbance is measured at 535 nm using 1,1,3,3-tetramethoxypropane as an external standard. Results are calculated and presented as malondialdehyde equivalents per milligram of protein. Those skilled in the art will recognize that other methods known in the art can be used to evaluate the level of oxidative stress in samples.

[0207] b) Protein carbonylation: The effect of oxidative stress on proteins is evaluated based on the reaction of carbonyl groups with dinitrophenylhydrazine (Levine et al., 1990) (Levine, RL; Garland, D.; Oliver, CN; Amici, A.; Climent, I.; Lenz, AG; Ahn, BW; Shaltiel, S.; Stadman, ER Determination of carbonyl content in oxidatively modified proteins. Methods Enzymol, v. 186, p. 464-478, 1990; incorporated herein by reference). Briefly, proteins are first precipitated by adding 20% ​​trichloroacetic acid, dissolved in dinitrophenylhydrazine, and absorbance is measured at 370 nm. Results are expressed as the level of protein carbonyl per milligram of protein. Those skilled in the art will recognize that other methods known in the art can be used to evaluate the level of protein carbonylation.

[0208] c) Extent of oxidative damage at sulfhydryl groups of proteins: Oxidative damage of proteins is analyzed by characterizing the damage to sulfhydryl groups (previously described by Aksenov et al. (Aksenov, MY, Markesbery, WR Changes in thiol content and expression of glutathione redox system genes in the hippocampus and cerebellum in Alzheimer disease. NeurosciLett, v. 302, p. 141-145, 2001)). Briefly, proteins in samples are precipitated and dissolved in dithionitrobenzoic acid. Absorbance is measured at 412 nm. Results are expressed as the level of TNB per milligram of protein. Those skilled in the art will recognize that other methods known in the art can be used to assess the level of oxidative damage at sulfhydryl groups of proteins.

[0209] d) Antioxidant activity of enzymes: Catalase (CAT) activity is determined by measuring the decrease in absorbance of hydrogen peroxide at 240 nm. Data is plotted as units per milligram of protein. Superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity is determined by inhibition of the autoxidation of adrenaline measured spectrophotometrically at 480 nm (as described by Bannister, JV; Calabrese, L. Assays for superoxide dismutase. Methods Biochem Anal, v. 32, p. 279-312, 1987) and expressed as units of activity per milligram of protein. Those skilled in the art will recognize that other methods known in the art can be used to assess enzyme activity levels.

[0210] e) Determination of total protein: All biochemical measurements can be standardized for protein content using, for example, the method described by Lowry, Rosebrough, and Farr (Lowry, OH; Rosebrough, NJ; Farr, A. Protein measurement with the Folin phenol reagent. J BiolChem, v. 193, p. 265-275, 1951) with bovine serum albumin as standard.

[0211] A subject will benefit from at least one of the following by using the disclosed garments: reduced pain, increased muscle endurance, increased stamina, increased muscle strength, changes in the cardiopulmonary system such as increased respiratory capacity, increased flexibility, changes in cellular metabolism, improved analgesia, antioxidant effects, anti-fibromyalgia effects, reduced inflammation, reduced oxidative stress, changes in cytokine levels, changes in blood circulation, reduced intolerance to cold environments, reduced symptoms of arthritis or vascular disease, increased skin perfusion, reduced heart rate, reduced blood pressure, faster recovery from injury or exercise, aesthetic effects such as reduced cellulite in the subject, and improved quality of life.

[0212] Example 20: Use of bioceramics emitting far-infrared energy in the treatment of human fibromyalgia. Fibromyalgia is a painful chronic condition that is usually accompanied by a variety of symptoms and mainly affects the musculoskeletal system. 2.5% of the Brazilian population suffers from fibromyalgia. Recent epidemiological data indicate that approximately 2% of the world's population is affected by fibromyalgia. The main symptoms of fibromyalgia are related to persistent pain lasting more than three months, insomnia, fatigue, anxiety, paresthesias, headaches, and tender points. The debate regarding the underlying causes of fibromyalgia is ongoing, however, research has raised the possibility that fibromyalgia may be related to genetic causes, trauma, infection, and stress.

[0213] Objective: This study evaluates the effect of a garment product soaked in infrared emitting ceramic material (bioceramic) compared with underwater exercise on symptoms and prognosis in patients diagnosed with fibromyalgia.

[0214] Study design: This study is based on a blinded randomized clinical study. The study is designed to fully compare the effects of separate treatments; patients are randomly distributed into groups to avoid systematic errors. Individuals are randomized as follows (n=25 per group): Group 1: control group, not treated with aquatic exercise therapy or bioceramics; Group 2: treated with bioceramic materials only; Group 3: treated with aquatic exercise therapy only; Group 4: treated with both aquatic exercise therapy and bioceramics.

[0215] Treatment with aquatic exercise therapy: The exercise previously described by Berti et al (2008) (BERTI, Gabriela et al. Fibromalgia treatment: clinician and laboratory research for patients at the Centro Universitario Feevale em Nova Humburgo-RS. Digital Educational Fisica y Desportes. n. 122, 2008; incorporated herein by reference) is carried out, for example, in a temperature-controlled swimming pool at the UNISUL Aquatic Complex. Alternatively, exercise can be carried out in any suitable pool.

[0216] The exercise is performed in four phases, each involving 36 sessions of one hour each, three times per week per group. During the first phase, after a general warm-up, there may be forward and lateral movements in a straight line along the entire length of the pool. The second phase may last about 15 minutes and may include active stretching of the upper and lower muscles, sustained for successive 20-second intervals. The third phase of exercise has a duration of about 20 minutes and is designed to be relatively absent in the upper and lower body parts. Finally, the fourth phase may consist of a relaxation exercise characterized by vibration movements, performed under the supervision of a physical therapist.

[0217] Conclusion: The efficacy of bioceramics emitting far-infrared energy in treating human fibromyalgia will be determined using one or more of the endpoints / parameters described in Example 19. The hypothesis is that the disclosed ceramics will be effective in treating humans with fibromyalgia.

[0218] Example 21: A randomized, placebo-controlled study to test the effect of bioceramics as an adjuvant to physical therapy in the treatment of chronic low back pain in humans. Low back pain (LBP) is a common complaint in today's society and is a significant cause of discomfort in adults under the age of 45. Debilitating low back pain that continues for more than three months is considered chronic. Chronic low back pain (CLBP) has many causes and it is often treated in a variety of ways, such as bed rest, lumbar support devices, traction, heat therapy, electrical stimulation, and manipulation. Invasive treatment methods such as surgery, selective nerve root blocks, and epidural injections can be used to treat chronic low back pain.

[0219] Objective: The objective of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of a garment of the present disclosure containing bioceramics that emit far infrared energy that reflects the bioceramics to treat chronic back pain.

[0220] Methods: This study is designed as a controlled clinical trial to test the efficacy of far-infrared emitting ceramic sleeves or patches as an adjuvant to physical therapy treatment of chronic low back pain.

[0221] Intervention: Subjects will follow a regular physical therapy (PT) regimen treatment at the Wilfred R. Cameron Wellness Center clinic in Washington, PA. Subjects will be randomized into three experimental groups: a) Control: Received PT treatment only. b) Bioceramic patch: undergo PT procedure and use a bioceramic patch for "n" hours after procedure. c) Placebo: Receive PT treatment and use a placebo patch (without bioceramic) for "n" hours after the treatment time.

[0222] Assessment of pain and disability levels: The Oswestry Back Pain Disability Index (ODI); the Roland-Morris Low Back Pain and Disability Questionnaire and the "Backache Index" (BAI) are used to assess pain levels. It is hypothesized that the patch of the present disclosure will be effective in treating humans with chronic back pain.

[0223] Example 22: Use of bioceramics emitting far infrared energy in the treatment of pain in humans. Subjects with chronic back pain wear a pad of the present disclosure. The efficacy of the pad is evaluated in the study described in Example 21 or another suitable study. An exemplary pad for treating chronic back pain is the pad shown in Figure 2 worn as shown in Figure 10, either vertically or horizontally.

[0224] Intervention: Subjects with chronic back pain wear a pad daily for 7 consecutive days for approximately 6 consecutive weeks. The pad provides the subject with an amount of infrared energy. The amount of infrared energy received by the subject is as follows (far infrared wavelength between 9-10 micrometers): * Fabric silk-screened with ink at 50% bioceramic concentration: 4.05milliW / cm at body temperature of 36.5°C 2 The irradiance of the lamp is approximately 2.43 J / cm2 per hour of use. 2 to provide. * Fabric silk-screened with ink at 30% bioceramic concentration: 3.65milliW / cm at body temperature of 36.5°C 2 The irradiance of the lamp is approximately 2.19 J / cm2 per hour of use. 2 to provide.

[0225] The treatment relieves the subject's chronic back pain.

[0226] The subject wishes to sustain chronic back pain relief. The subject optionally consults with a doctor or physical therapist to discuss treatment regimen and options. The subject adjusts the treatment regimen to sustain relief by wearing the patch for a longer period of time. The subject experiences sustained relief from chronic back pain.

[0227] Example 23: Use of bioceramics emitting far infrared energy in the treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome in humans. Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is an entrapment neuropathy that is primarily caused by compression and irritation of the median nerve at the level of the carpal tunnel. Its symptoms include pain and paresthesia in the wrist and hand that may radiate to the forearm. CTS affects 1% to 3% of the population, with a higher incidence in certain occupational groups that perform repetitive movements of the hand and wrist.

[0228] Objective: The objective of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of a garment of the present disclosure containing bioceramics that emit far infrared energy that reflects off the bioceramics to treat carpal tunnel syndrome.

[0229] Methods: A randomized, placebo-controlled pilot clinical trial to test the efficacy of a far-infrared emitting ceramic sleeve or patch as an adjuvant to physiotherapy treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome.

[0230] Intervention: Subjects will follow a regular physical therapy (PT) regimen treatment at the Wilfred R. Cameron Wellness Center clinic in Washington, PA. Subjects will be randomized into three experimental groups: a) Control: Received PT treatment only. b) Bioceramic sleeve: undergo PT procedure and use a bioceramic patch for "n" hours after procedure. c) Placebo: undergo PT procedure and use a placebo sleeve (without bioceramic) for "n" hours post-treatment time.

[0231] Endpoints measured: 1) Assessment of pain and disability levels: The Boston Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Questionnaire is used to determine the effectiveness of the sleeve of the present disclosure in treating carpal tunnel syndrome; and 2) Assessment of grip strength (muscle strength): Grip strength of the affected dominant hand of subjects standing with elbow extended is measured with a Digital Spring Hand Dynamometer (Baseline Smedley, USA). It is hypothesized that the sleeve of the present disclosure will be effective in treating human carpal tunnel syndrome.

[0232] Example 24: Use of bioceramics emitting far infrared energy in the treatment of inflammation in humans. Objective: The objective of this study is to evaluate the effect of a garment of the present disclosure, such as a shirt, sleeve, or pad, containing bioceramics that emit far infrared energy that reflects bioceramics for the treatment of inflammation.

[0233] Methods: This study is designed as a controlled clinical trial to test the effectiveness of a far-infrared emitting ceramic sleeve or patch as an adjuvant to treat inflammation in humans, such as arthritic human joint inflammation.

[0234] Study Type: Interventional. Subjects will be randomly divided into three experimental groups: a) Group 1: No treatment. b) Group 2: Wearing the garment of the present disclosure: shirt, pad, or both for "n" hours after treatment. c) Group 3: wearing a control garment containing no bioceramic for "n" hours after treatment.

[0235] Endpoint Classification: The efficacy of bioceramics in treating inflammation is judged based on the expression of the following cytokines, either individually or as a group: TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-10 and IL-6. The absorbance for the aforementioned cytokines is measured using a microplate reader at 450 nm and 550 nm. Human cytokine levels are used to confirm the anti-inflammatory effects of the bioceramic compositions.

[0236] Example 25: Self-reported levels of overall pain, overall health level, overall fatigue, overall sleep quality, and overall performance level in humans participating in a Zumba Fitness program. An online questionnaire was used to evaluate the effect of bioceramic materials on subjects participating in the Zumba fitness program (ZUMBA®). Subjects were asked to confirm how many times per week they performed Zumba. Subjects who attended Zumba classes were selected for further analysis. Ten subjects were asked to answer the following questions: 1) "How would you rate your overall pain level over the past two weeks? Check the number that best describes your pain: 1=no pain 10=worst." Figure 12 is a graph showing a self-reported reduction in overall pain levels by greater than 7.5% in human subjects treated with a garment of the present disclosure. 2) "How would you rate your overall health over the past two weeks? Check the number that best describes your overall health: 1 = Very good 10 = Very poor." Figure 13 is a graph showing a 46% greater self-reported improvement in overall health in human subjects wearing a shirt of the present disclosure while exercising in a Zumba fitness program. 3) "How would you rate your overall fatigue over the past two weeks? Check the number that best describes your overall fatigue: 1 = very good 10 = very bad." Figure 14 is a graph showing a self-reported reduction in overall fatigue of greater than 25% in human subjects wearing a shirt of the present disclosure while exercising in a Zumba fitness program. 4) "How would you rate your overall sleep quality for the past two weeks? Check the number that best describes your overall sleep quality: 1 = very good 10 = very poor." Figure 15 is a graph showing a self-reported improvement in overall sleep quality of greater than 8.5% in human subjects wearing a shirt of the present disclosure while exercising in a Zumba fitness program. 5) "How would you rate your overall performance level over the past two weeks? Check the number that best describes your overall performance: 1 = very good 10 = very poor." Figure 16 is a graph showing greater than 7% self-reported improvement in overall performance level in human subjects wearing a shirt of the present disclosure while exercising in a Zumba fitness program.

[0237] Conclusion: By wearing the bioceramic shirts of the present disclosure, humans participating in a Zumba fitness program experience reduced overall pain, improved overall health, reduced overall fatigue, improved overall sleep quality, and improved overall performance levels.

[0238] Example 26: Report on far-infrared radiation of bioceramic materials Absolute radiation report: According to the analysis of radiation power emission in the infrared region ranging between 9 and 11 micrometers, carried out at the Laboratory of Spectroscopy and Laser Institute of Exact Sciences, Federal University Fluminense, attached to the unit and using Calorimeter Scientech (Boulder, CO, USA), model 118, serial number 380802 of urn, Scientech, model 473, serial number 364002, the power and energy are measured with the following materials: 1) Plain weave fabric (not including bioceramics); 2) bioceramic fabric (30% bioceramic), the bioceramic formulation was as described in Example 1; 3) bioceramic fabric (50% bioceramic), the bioceramic formulation was as described in Example 1;

[0239] The analysis of emissivity was obtained based on the Stefan-Boltzmann equation given by:

[0240]

number

[0241] P is the radiation power per unit area (Watts / m 2 ), c is the emissivity of the wafer (unitless) and a is the Stefan-Boltzmann constant (5.7x10 -8 W / m 2 K 4 ), where T is the temperature of the material in Kelvin. The emissivity of a material is a dimensionless quantity that is a material property and relates to the ability of a material to emit energy by radiation from its surface. It is also the ratio of the energy radiated by a particular material in an urn to the energy radiated by a blackbody urn (e=1). Objects that are not true blackbodies have emissivities less than 1 and greater than 0.

[0242] For analysis, the materials were cut into 15 mm diameter disks and placed in an insulated oven and electronically maintained at their temperature (with a variation of ±1° C.). Once at thermal equilibrium, the oven set / disks were positioned in front of the calorimeter and radiation measurements were taken.

[0243] The potential measurements per square meter for each material are scaled according to temperature in Kelvin high fourth power. Emissivity values ​​are calculated from the slope of a fitted straight line by the least squares method performed using the QtiPlot program (free domain).

[0244] The results obtained are as follows: 1) Plain weave (no bioceramics); emissivity 0.68 (Figure 17) 2) Bioceramic fabric (30% bioceramic): emissivity 0.70 (Figure 18) 3) Bioceramic fabric (50% bioceramic): emissivity 0.74 (Figure 19)

[0245] The results correspond to the mean values ​​of the measurements; the average of 5 measurements for each material carried out, with an estimated error of ±0.02. In the samples tested, the addition of bioceramic material increased the absolute emissivity of the material, which confirmed a greater issuance in the long infrared spectral range of 9-11 micrometers.

[0246] Example 27: The use of bioceramics that emit far infrared energy improves flexibility, increases back, leg and grip strength, increases respiratory capacity and enhances cardiopulmonary fitness. Objective: The objective of this study is to evaluate the effect of the garment of the present disclosure in improving flexibility, increasing back, leg and grip strength, increasing respiratory capacity and enhancing cardiopulmonary fitness in humans.

[0247] METHODS:The study is designed as a controlled, double-blind, clinical trial to test the statistical impact of a far-infrared emitting bioceramic shirt, sleeve, or patch in improving flexibility, increasing back, leg, and grip strength, increasing respiratory capacity, and enhancing cardiopulmonary fitness in humans. Study Type: Intervention. Subjects will be randomized into three experimental groups and will receive treatment for at least 6 weeks: a) Group 1: No treatment. b) Group 2: Wearing the garment of the present disclosure: shirt, pad, or both for "n" hours after treatment. c) Group 3: wearing a control garment containing no bioceramic for 'n' hours after treatment. "n" hours can be about 1 hour, 2 hours, 3 hours, 4 hours, 5 hours, 6 hours, 7 hours, 8 hours, 9 hours, 10 hours, 11 hours, 12 hours, 13 hours, 14 hours, 15 hours, 16 hours, 17 hours, 18 hours, 19 hours, 20 hours, 21 hours, 22 hours, 23 hours, or 24 hours during a day.

[0248] Endpoint Classification: Flexibility, back strength, leg strength, grip strength, respiratory capacity, and cardiopulmonary fitness are measured as previously described in Examples 11, 13, 14, 19, and 20.

[0249] Example 28: Use of bioceramics emitting far-infrared energy as an analgesic in mice Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the analgesic effect of different bioceramic concentrations and treatment times in an experimental model of CFA-induced inflammation in mice.

[0250] Methods: Experiments were performed using adult male Swiss mice weighing 25-35 grams, housed at 22°C under a 12-hour light / 12-hour dark cycle (lights on at 6 a.m.) with free access to food and water. The experiments were performed after approval of the protocol by the Ethics Committee of the Universidade do Sul de Santa Catarina (UNISUL). Animals (n=8) received an intraplantar injection (right hind paw) of a solution containing 20 μl of Freund's complete adjuvant (CFA, 70%). Naive animals were injected with saline. Mechanical nociceptive thresholds were assessed as the response frequency to 10 presentations of a 0.4 g von frey filament applied to the right hind paw of the animals.

[0251] In experiment number 1, animals were placed in their housing boxes for 2 hours on top of either: (1) a pad consisting of 70% BioCorn PVC and 30% bioceramics; (2) a pad consisting of 90% BioCorn PVC and 10% bioceramics; or (3) a pad consisting of 100% BioCorn PVC and 0% bioceramics. Two hours after exposure, mechanical nociceptive thresholds were assessed. Untreated animals received no treatment.

[0252] In experiment number 2, animals were placed in their cages on pads made of 70% BioCorn PVC and 30% bioceramics for either 0.5, 1 or 2 hours. Mechanical nociceptive thresholds were then assessed. Untreated animals received no treatment.

[0253] Results: The results show that intraplantar injection of CFA induced mechanical hypernociception that was significantly reduced by acute exposure to bioceramic-containing pads (P<0.001). Exposure to pads with higher bioceramic concentrations induced a longer lasting effect (Figure 20, Panel A). Longer exposure to bioceramic pads induced a longer lasting effect (Figure 20, Panel B).

[0254] Conclusion: Exposure to bioceramic pads reduced inflammatory source mechanical hypernociception induced by intraplantar injection of CFA in mice in a dose-dependent manner.

[0255] Example 29: Effect of bioceramics on organic agricultural production Objective: To evaluate the effect of BioPower® on hydroponic lettuce (Lactuca sativa) cultivation.

[0256] Methods: Experiments were performed with lettuce (Lactuca sativa) grown in a hydroponic system. The control group was grown according to standard hydroponic methods. The experimental group (bioceramic) was treated with bioceramic pellets (30% bioceramic, 70% polystyrene-polypropylene-1 lb) placed in the water pump. Lettuce was grown for 3 weeks and harvested for analysis.

[0257] Results: The results show that the lettuce treated with bioceramics and receiving water was heavier and showed more leaves compared to the control group. Figure 21 is a graph illustrating the effect of adding bioceramics to the water treatment in a hydroponic system. n=12, vertical lines indicate standard error of the mean (SEM). * p<0.05.

[0258] Electrical conductivity (EC), expressed in microsiemens (μS), is a measurement of the ability of a nutrient solution to conduct electric current. Pure water (deionized water) is an insulator. It is the conductive substances (or ionized salts) dissolved in the water that determine how conductive the solution is. With few exceptions, when there is a higher concentration of nutrients, the current flows faster and when there is a lower concentration of nutrients, the current flows slower. This is because the amount of dissolved solids in the nutrient solution is directly proportional to the conductivity. Therefore, by measuring the EC, it can be determined how strong or weak the concentration of the nutrient solution is. In this case, a lower conductivity in the experimental group (BioPower group) represents a lower concentration of nutrients in the solution, which may suggest that the plants treated with BioPower absorbed more nutrients than the plants in the control group. Figure 22 is a graph illustrating the lower conductivity of the water treated with bioceramics shown from day 16 to day 20 compared to the control group (water only). FIG. 23 shows photographs showing lettuce at the start of treatment (day 1 in the hydroponic system) (Panel A of FIG. 23); lettuce after the first week of treatment (Panel B of FIG. 23); lettuce after the third week of treatment (Panel C of FIG. 23); and a photograph of the bioceramic pellets used in the experiment (FIG. 24).

[0259] Example 30: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical study of the effects of bioceramics emitting far-infrared energy in humans participating in an exercise or fitness program. Objective: To investigate the effects of ceramic far-infrared emitting (cFIR) garments on humans participating in a ZUMBA® exercise or fitness program.

[0260] Background: Bioceramics are persistent, inorganic, non-metallic polycrystalline compounds that are highly biocompatible due to their inertness in aqueous conditions and are used extensively in plants. Bioceramic textiles and garments disclosed herein have been optimized for their ability to reflect / emit far infrared radiation (FIR). The objective of this study is to evaluate the effect of textiles containing bioceramics in combination with an exercise or fitness program in humans.

[0261] DESIGN: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. DEMOGRAPHICS: The study will include male and female subjects of various ages.

[0262] Intervention: Human subjects will participate in a ZUMBA® exercise or fitness program. All human subjects will participate in a ZUMBA® exercise or fitness program at least once a week. Subjects will be randomized into three experimental groups: Group 1 (Untreated Control-Plain Clothing): Subjects in this group will wear plain control shirts and / or leggings (pants) during the Zumba exercise or fitness program. Group 2 (Placebo Control - Shirt and / or leggings (pants) containing infrared energy or ceramics that do not reflect infrared light): Subjects in this group wear a control shirt and / or leggings (pants) containing infrared energy or ceramics that do not reflect infrared light during the Zumba exercise or fitness program. Group 3 (experimental - shirt and / or leggings (pants) containing about 50% by weight of the following bioceramic composition: about 18% aluminum oxide Al2O3, about 14% silicon dioxide SiO2, about 50% kaolinite (Al2Si2O5(OH)4), about 8% zirconium oxide (ZrO2), and about 10% tourmaline (NaFe 2+ 3Al6Si6O 18(BO3)3(OH)3OH). Subjects in this group wear a shirt and / or leggings (pants) containing said bioceramics during a Zumba exercise or fitness program. An experiment measuring the amount of infrared energy emitted by said garment is described in Example 26. Further experiments are conducted to measure the amount of infrared energy emitted by the shirt before, during, and after subjects participate in a Zumba exercise or fitness program.

[0263] Evaluation: The following evaluation methods are used to measure the effect of bioceramic-containing fabrics in humans in combination with an exercise or fitness program:

[0264] Body composition: Body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference: Percentage of body fat will be measured using either skinfold methods or bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA). Body composition will be assessed at least twice: 1) a baseline assessment will be performed before the start of the intervention and control trials; and 2) at least one follow-up assessment will be performed at the end of the 6-week period after the start of the intervention.

[0265] Cardiovascular Fitness: To measure "aerobic" or "cardiovascular" fitness, the Harvard Step Test is used. The Harvard Step Test is an art-recognized method of measuring how oxygen consumption increases with exercise intensity. VO2max is defined as the highest rate of oxygen consumption achievable during maximal or exhausting exercise. · Harvard Step Test Protocol: Participants ascend and descend steps (1 second up, 1 second down) at a rate of 30 completed steps per minute for 5 minutes or until fatigue. Fatigue is defined as when the participant is unable to maintain the step rate for 15 consecutive seconds. Subjects sit down immediately upon completion of the test and their total heart rate is taken based on wrist pulse within the following time frames: a) 1 to 1.5 minutes after completion; b) 2 to 2.5 minutes after completion; and c) 3 to 3.5 minutes after completion.

[0266] Cardiovascular fitness is assessed at the end of the Zumba exercise or fitness class: 1) a baseline assessment is conducted prior to the start of the intervention and control trials; and 2) a follow-up assessment is conducted at the end of the Zumba exercise or fitness class. The subject's fitness index score is then determined by the following equation: Fitness Index = (100 x test time in seconds) / (2 x total heart rate during recovery period).

[0267] Flexibility: The flexibility of each human subject is measured by a sit-and-reach test (Novel Flex-Tester® Sit & Reach Box). For the assessment, each subject is asked to sit with their knees horizontally on the floor and the box horizontally on their soles. The subject then reaches their hands towards the box and moves the distance indicator as far as possible. The average of three measurements is used for the analysis. Flexibility is assessed at the end of ZUMBA® exercise or fitness classes: 1) a baseline assessment is conducted before the start of the intervention and control studies; and 2) a follow-up assessment is conducted at the end of ZUMBA® exercise or fitness classes at least once a week for a total of six weeks.

[0268] Back and leg strength: A back / leg dynamometer (Baseline, United States) is used to measure leg and back strength. Leg strength is recorded in a standing position with both knees bent at an angle of 135°. For the assessment of back strength, participants are asked to stand on the platform of the device with both knees bent at an angle of 135°. Using a pronated grip, participants hold the handlebars of the device and slowly straighten both legs to their maximum level without using back or shoulder muscles. For the assessment of back strength, subjects are asked to repeat the procedure described while using only the back muscles (knees remain extended). At the end of the Zumba® exercise or fitness class, flexibility is assessed: 1) a baseline assessment is performed before the start of the intervention and control study; and 2) a follow-up assessment is performed at the end of the Zumba® exercise or fitness class at least once a week for a total of 6 weeks.

[0269] Questionnaires: Subjects are optionally asked to complete a questionnaire aimed at assessing the effect of the intervention on parameters related to: health status, sleep, pain, perceived wellness, or quality of life. Exemplary questionnaires include the Short-Form Health Survey (SF-36); Pittsburg sleep quality index (PSQI); McGill Pain Questionnaire; Wellness Questionnaire; WHO Quality of Life Questionnaire (WHOQOL-BREF); the questionnaire described in Example 25, and / or many variations thereof.

[0270] Example 31: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical study of the effects of bioceramics emitting far-infrared energy in humans participating in an exercise or fitness program. Objective: To evaluate the effects of ceramic far-infrared emitting (cFIR) shirts on physical fitness parameters.

[0271] Methods: Each participant was randomly assigned to one of two experimental groups: · Experimental Group I (cFIR shirt): Each participant wore the cFIR shirt for a maximum of 4 hours after participating in physical exercise and for a minimum of 4 hours each day during the exercise day. Experimental Group II (placebo shirt): Participants wore the placebo shirt (no cFIR) for a maximum of 4 hours after the exercise protocol and for a minimum of 4 hours each day during the exercise day.

[0272] Study type: Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial.

[0273] Fitness Program: Subjects will participate in 1-hour Pilates exercise sessions three times per week. A standardized, progressive treatment protocol will address muscle activation strategies through various movement patterns including muscle extension / contraction. The protocol will require participants to consciously recruit specific muscle groups in various movement patterns in order to work all major muscle groups and increase strength overall.

[0274] Sample size and population: Results from experimental group I (cFIR shirts) and experimental group II (placebo shirts) will be compared. The equivalent number of subjects required to provide α=0.05 with a power of 0.95 is estimated to be a total of 62 subjects (31 subjects in each group) assigned to both experimental groups. The number of subjects required is G * power was calculated with Statistical Power Analyses version 3.1 (Heinrich-Heine-Universitat Düsseldorf, Germany) and is as follows: ·Analysis: A priori Input: Effect size f=0.35 / α err prob=0.05 / Power(1-β err prob)=0.95 / Number of groups=2 / Number of measurements=9 / Correlation among rep measures=0.5 Input / Output: Noncentrality λ=13.6710000 / Critical F=4.0011914 / Numerator df=1.0000000 / Denominator df=60.0000000 / Total number of samples=62 / Actual power=0.9532935

[0275] Randomization: Participants will be randomly assigned to groups. A research assistant will generate random numbers using Research Randomizer software. These numbers will be stored on a computer and only accessible to the assistant. No stratification or blocking strategies will be used.

[0276] Suggested number and frequency of assessments: A baseline assessment will be conducted prior to the start of the study, followed by weekly assessments for a total of 6 weeks (minimum).

[0277] Measured endpoints: A) Functional abilities: Balance: The static balance of each human subject is measured (stabilometric exam) using a pressure plate (Medicapteurs®, S-Plate® model). The platform records the deviation from the center of pressure (COP) in the anterior-posterior and mediolateral directions. Data acquisition is performed for 30 seconds under the following conditions: 1) Condition 1: The human subject keeps their eyes open during the measurement; Condition 2: The human subject keeps their eyes closed during the measurement.

[0278] Cardiopulmonary fitness: The oxygen consumption (V02) of each human subject is calculated with the regression equation as taught by King et al (J Rheumatol 1999; 26: 2233-7).

[0279] B) Body composition: Body mass index, fat mass index, skeletal muscle mass index, and percentage of body fat were calculated using bioelectrical impedance analysis.

[0280] C) Far-infrared emissivity of human subjects wearing bioceramic garments: Human subjects are photographed before, during, and after the exercise protocol with an infrared thermographic camera (Flir E6 IR camera, FLIR Systems, Inc.). Far-infrared images are used to determine changes in body temperature induced by cFIR emissivity and / or physical activity.

[0281] D) Far-infrared emissivity of bioceramic shirts and other clothing: The FIR emissivity of the shirts is measured with an Astral Series S Calorimeter AC2500S attached to a small instrument (Astral AI310 (Scientech, Boulder, CO, USA)). The far-infrared emissivity of the bioceramic shirts by calorimeter is used to determine the real-time FIR emissivity of the shirts. Assessments are performed before and after the human subjects participate in an exercise protocol (pilates class). Assessments are performed voluntarily during the exercise class.

[0282] E) Blood / saliva samples are collected for biochemical analysis (muscle stress markers / inflammatory markers / oxidative stress markers): Muscle stress markers: creatine kinase (CK) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH). Inflammatory markers: interleukin (IL)-10, IL-6, IL-1β, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α. Oxidative stress: Thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), carbonylated proteins, catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD).

[0283] F) Questionnaire: The following questionnaire will be used to obtain an individual assessment from each subject: a) Modified Borg Index of Perceived Exertion (RPE); b) Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI); c) WHO Quality of Life-BREF (WHOQOL-BREF)

[0284] Example 32: Comparison of bioceramics of the present disclosure with different bioceramic compositions incorporated into an UnderArmour Cold Gear T-shirt. Objective: To compare the analgesic effects of the claimed bioceramics to a far-infrared emitting bioceramic (cFIR) formulation of bioceramics provided by UnderArmour™ (UA) in a mouse model of CFA-induced mechanical hypersensitivity. The CFA mouse model is further described in Examples 15, 16, and 18.

[0285] Assessment of mechanical hypersensitivity: Experiments were performed using adult male Swiss mice weighing 25-35 grams, housed at 22° C. under a 12-h light / 12-h dark cycle (lights on at 6 a.m.) with free access to food and water. Animals (n=8) received an intraplantar injection (right hind paw) of a solution containing 20 μl of complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA, 70%) to induce mechanical hypersensitivity.

[0286] For treatment, silk screened fabric containing either the far infrared emitting bioceramic of the present disclosure or the formulation described by UnderArmour™ was placed on the bottom of the animal's box. After 2 hours of exposure to the bioceramic, the mechanical nociceptive threshold of each animal was evaluated as the response frequency to 10 presentations of a 0.4g von Frey filament applied to the animal's right hind paw.

[0287] Results: CFA-induced mechanical hypernociception in mice was significantly reduced by exposure to a fabric containing a bioceramic of the present disclosure, which was lessened by exposure to a fabric containing about 40 wt% to about 60 wt% kaolinite (Al2SiO5(OH)4), about 5 wt% to about 15 wt% tourmaline, about 15 wt% to about 25 wt% aluminum oxide (Al2O3), about 10 wt% to about 20 wt% silicon dioxide (SiO2), and about 1 wt% to about 20 wt% zirconium oxide (ZrO2). CFA-induced mechanical hypernociception in mice was not reduced by exposure to a fabric containing a bioceramic formulation described by UnderArmour™. The analgesic effect lasted up to 2 hours.

[0288] 24 is a graph illustrating the analgesic effect of a far-infrared emitting bioceramic (cFIR) of the present disclosure versus a formulation of UnderArmour™ in a CFA mouse model of induced mechanical hypersensitivity. N=8 mice per group, vertical lines indicate standard error of the mean. * p<0.05.

[0289] Conclusion: The disclosed bioceramics reduced mechanical hypersensitivity induced by paw injection of CFA, while the different formulations did not provide analgesic effects.

[0290] Example 33: Infrared transmittance of bioceramics. Objective: To compare the infrared transmittance of a bioceramic of the present disclosure (containing 18% aluminum oxide, 14% silicon dioxide, 50% kaolinite, 8% zirconium oxide, and 10% tourmaline) to another bioceramic composition (containing 20% ​​aluminum, 3% titanium, 11% magnesium oxide, 6% iron trioxide, and 60% silica).

[0291] Methods: Infrared transmittance of powder samples of bioceramic powders (particle size = approximately 25 micrometers) was obtained using a Bruker spectrometer (Model Spectrum VERTEX 70, OPUS 6.5 software). The transmittance (%) was rated at 4 cm -1 and 350cm -1 From 4000cm -1 The evaluation was based on 72 scans in the scanning range up to .

[0292] Figure 25A shows the infrared transmittance of a bioceramic composition of the present disclosure that includes 18% aluminum oxide, 14% silicon dioxide, 50% kaolinite, 8% zirconium oxide, and 10% tourmaline, and Figure 25B shows the infrared transmittance of a bioceramic composition that includes 20% aluminum, 3% titanium, 11% magnesium oxide, 6% iron trioxide, and 60% silica.

[0293] Example 34: Effect of far-infrared emitting bioceramic garment on human subjects with fibromyalgia undergoing hydrotherapy. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effect of a far-infrared emitting bioceramic garment on the following parameters in human subjects with fibromyalgia: a) heart rate; b) performance-based functional motor skills; c) balance; d) overall perceived pain level; e) fibromyalgia impact, pain, quality of life and health-related questionnaires; f) blood levels of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines, and g) blood levels of markers of oxidative stress and activity of antioxidant enzymes.

[0294] Study Design: Double-blind, placebo-controlled study.

[0295] Intervention: Participants followed a hydrotherapy exercise regimen three times a week for six weeks and were randomly divided into two different groups (placebo and bioceramic). Subjects in the placebo group wore "sham apparel", i.e., human subjects wore a shirt that did not have far-infrared radiating properties (a shirt lacking bioceramic). Subjects in the bioceramic group wore the shirt containing bioceramic during sleep (6-8 hours) and during hydrotherapy sessions every night for six consecutive weeks. Each hydrotherapy session consisted of four stages: (1) warm-up: participants were asked to walk back and forth in the pool; (2) vigorous stretching of the upper and lower limbs; (3) vigorous exercise of the upper and lower limbs; and (4) relaxation exercise with vibration movements. All stages were guided by a therapist.

[0296] Sample size and population: 16 participants: 8 women in each group with similar age distribution. All participants were female.

[0297] Evaluations: Evaluations were performed to assess the following parameters and endpoints: flexibility, grip strength, heart rate, pain, performance, and functional exercise capacity. The results listed below describe data obtained during the first 6 consecutive weeks of evaluation:

[0298] A) Heart Rate: A cardiac monitor was used to assess the flexibility of human subjects. Number of Assessments: A baseline assessment was performed prior to the start of the study. Follow-up assessments were performed before and after every hydrotherapy session (3 times per week for 6 weeks). The results of this study are shown in Figure 26 and discussed below.

[0299] B) Performance-Based Functional Exercise Capacity: The 6-Minute Walk Test (6MWT), which measures the distance an individual can walk on a firm surface for a total of 6 minutes, was used to assess the functional exercise capacity of human subjects. Number of Assessments: A baseline assessment was conducted prior to the start of testing and 6 weeks after the start of testing. The results of this test are shown in Figure 26 and discussed below.

[0300] FIG. 26 is a graph illustrating the effect of far-infrared emitting bioceramic garment on heart rate and performance-based functional exercise capacity of human subjects with fibromyalgia following a hydrotherapy treatment regimen. Baseline assessments were performed weekly before any intervention. Panels A and B of FIG. 26 show the cumulative effect of far-infrared emitting bioceramic garment on heart rate during 6 weeks before and after hydrotherapy, respectively. Panel C of FIG. 26 shows performance-based measurement of functional exercise capacity over total walking distance in meters during 6 minutes. Baseline assessments were performed weekly before any intervention. * p<0.05 indicates a statistically significant difference between groups (paired t-test with 95% confidence interval - Graphpad Prism software, USA, 2014).

[0301] C) Balance: A stabilometry / baropodometry platform (S-Plate - Medicapteurs, France) was used to assess the balance of human subjects. Number of assessments: A baseline assessment was performed before the start of the study and a follow-up assessment was performed after 6 weeks of treatment. Figure 27 is a graph illustrating the effect of a far-infrared emitting bioceramic garment on the balance of a fibromyalgia patient following a hydrotherapy treatment regimen. Figure 27 demonstrates that hydrotherapy in combination with the use of a control garment did not affect the balance of the subjects, while the use of a far-infrared emitting bioceramic statistically reduced lateral oscillations. Figure 27 illustrates the cumulative results over a 6-week period. * p<0.05 indicates a statistically significant difference between groups (paired t-test with 95% confidence interval - Graphpad Prism software, USA, 2014).

[0302] D) Overall perceived pain level: A visual analog scale (VAS) was used to assess pain level. Number of assessments: A baseline assessment was performed before the start of the study. Follow-up assessments were performed before and after each hydrotherapy session (3 times per week for 6 weeks). *p<0.05 indicates a statistically significant difference between groups. Baseline assessments were performed once a week before any intervention. (Paired t-test 95% confidence interval-Graphpad Prism software, USA, 2014). Figure 28 is a graph illustrating the effect of the overall perceived pain level of human subjects suffering from fibromyalgia treated with far-infrared emitting bioceramic garments or sham garments. The results shown in Figure 28 suggest that: (1) hydrotherapy combined with the use of sham garments or bioceramic-containing garments reduced the overall pain level of the patients (compare pre- and post-baseline for each group-statistically significant differences not shown in the pictures); (2) the results suggest a chronic effect (cumulative) of the combined treatment.

[0303] E) Fibromyalgia Impact, Pain, Quality of Life and Health-Related Questionnaire: Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire (FIQ), McGill Pain Questionnaire and McGill Descriptor Index, and SF-36 questionnaire (physical function, pain and overall index) were used to evaluate the impact of far-infrared emitting bioceramics on fibromyalgia, pain, quality of life and other quality-related aspects of health. Number of assessments: baseline assessment before the start of the study and after 6 weeks. Figure 29A is a graph illustrating the results of Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire (FIQ) (panel A), McGill Pain Questionnaire (panel B) and McGill Descriptor Index (panel C). * p<0.05 and ** p<0.01 indicates a statistically significant difference between groups. Baseline assessments were performed weekly before any intervention. (Paired t-test with 95% confidence intervals - Graphpad Prism software, USA, 2014).

[0304] The results depicted in Figure 29A suggest that: (1) hydrotherapy combined with the use of a placebo (fake) shirt or a bioceramic shirt had a positive effect on the FIQ scores, but the use of a far-infrared emitting bioceramic shirt combined with hydrotherapy was more effective than hydrotherapy alone (placebo shirt); (2) the use of the bioceramic shirt statistically affected the McGill pain index and descriptors. Note that the lower the score, the better the outcome. Figure 29B is a graph illustrating the results of the SF-36 questionnaire; physical function (panel A), pain (panel B), and global index (panel C). Baseline assessments were performed weekly before any intervention. (Paired t-test 95% confidence intervals - Graphpad Prism software, USA, 2014). The results shown in Figure 29B show that hydrotherapy combined with the use of a placebo shirt or a far-infrared emitting bioceramic had a positive effect on the overall index as well as pain of the SF-36, while the use of the bioceramic shirt statistically influenced all three scores. Note that the scores can vary from 0 to 100, and that the lower the score, the worse the prognosis.

[0305] F) Blood levels of inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to assess blood levels of inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines. Number of assessments: Baseline assessments were performed before the start of the study. Follow-up assessments were performed before and after each hydrotherapy session (3 times per week for 6 weeks).

[0306] G) Blood levels of markers of oxidative stress and activity of antioxidant enzymes. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA) were used to assess blood levels of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines. Number of assessments: A baseline assessment was performed before the start of the study. Follow-up assessments were performed before and after each hydrotherapy session (3 times per week for 6 weeks).

[0307] Example 35: Effect of far-infrared emitting bioceramic clothing on posture inclination of judo players. Context: Postural control is defined as the control of the body's spatial position for balance and orientation. Postural stability / balance is an essential component when evaluating the effectiveness of interventions to improve balance.

[0308] Objective: To determine the effect of fabric impregnated with far-infrared emitting ceramic material on the posture inclination of university judo athletes.

[0309] DESIGN: A single-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study. Seventeen male and female volunteers were randomly assigned to an experimental group (cFIR group, consisting of four male and four female athletes who were asked to wear T-shirts impregnated with FIR emitting ceramic material for five months); and a control group (No-cFIR group, consisting of five male and four female athletes who were asked to wear sham / placebo T-shirts, i.e., T-shirts that were not impregnated with cFIR emitting ceramic material). Randomization numbers were generated from a randomization site (randomization.com).

[0310] Participants: A total of 17 judo athletes (9 males and 8 females) participated in the study. The following inclusion criteria were taken into account: (1) each human subject had to have participated in an official judo competition within the calendar year; (2) each human subject had to practice at least three times per week; (3) each human subject had to be between 18 and 35 years of age; (4) each human subject had to have practiced judo for at least 10 years. The following exclusion criteria were taken into account: (5) individuals who showed a history of musculoskeletal disorders in the hips, knees or ankles in the past two months; subjects who utilized pharmacological or nutritional agents; subjects who showed musculoskeletal disorders during the study or did not wear a shirt for a minimum of 4 hours per day were excluded from the study. All participants competed at a national level.

[0311] Bioceramics and clothing: The experimental group wore T-shirts impregnated with FIR-emitting bioceramic material. The bioceramic material was mixed with textile ink (Silkscreen Plastisol, Imagine Color, Brazil) and applied to the bioceramic clothing (i.e., T-shirt). The bioceramic ink was used to silkscreen a repeating pattern on a 92% polyester, 8% spandex fabric that was used to impregnate the T-shirt with the bioceramic. A sham shirt was silkscreened using the same pattern but with 100% plastisol ink (without the far-infrared-emitting ceramic powder). The mean absolute emissivity of the ceramic powder was 93% at wavelengths of 9-11 μm, as determined with a Scientech Calorimeter (Boulder, CO, USA), Astral Series S AC2500S model, attached to a unit detector Scientech, Astral Series S AI310D model. The control group wore a placebo shirt (without the FIR-emitting ceramic material).

[0312] Intervention: Participants were instructed by a blinded researcher to wear one of the shirts for 4 hours each day during practice (including aerobic training, weightlifting and fighting classes) for the duration of the experiment. The intervention lasted 5 months and involved daily use of the bioceramic T-shirts (4 hours during practice). Static balance (stability tests) was assessed before and after the intervention. The training protocol consisted of 2 hours of intensive fitness in the morning and 2 hours of tatami-specific technical training in the afternoon, 5 days per week. Figure 30 is an organizational flow chart describing the study set-up.

[0313] Endpoints: Advances in technology have provided the scientific community with computerized platform systems for the quantitative assessment of static balance. These systems provide an easy, practical, and cost-effective way to quantitatively assess functional balance through the analysis of postural tilt. Such systems record the displacement of the center of pressure (COP) of the foot by sensors embedded in the platform structure. The movement of the COP reflects both the horizontal position of the center of gravity (COG) and the ground reaction forces due to the muscular activity of the lower limbs transmitted through the foot. Body tilt can be measured as a sustained oscillation of the center of mass (COM) pointing in the anterior-posterior (AP) and mediolateral (ML) axes.

[0314] Statistical analysis: For statistical analysis, the Kolmogorov-Smirnov test was used to determine the distribution of samples using parametric tests in the analysis of pressure plate data. Paired t-tests and independent t-tests were used for comparisons within and between groups, respectively. The GraphPad Prism program (version 5.0, Mac OS) was used for statistical analysis, and the significance level was set at 5% (p<0.05).

[0315] Results: The total length and area of ​​oscillation of the center of pressure (COP) were significantly reduced after treatment in the experimental group, with the degree of reduction differing when the eyes were open (p<0.05) but not closed (p>0.05). Furthermore, the experimental group showed a reduction in the mediolateral and anterior-posterior deviation (width) of the COP after treatment in the open-eye analysis.

[0316] Analyses were performed for 25 participants (Figure 30). The anthropometric characteristics of the participants are shown in Table 1. There were no statistically significant differences between groups regarding personal characteristics.

[0317] [Table 1]

[0318] FIG. 31 is a graph illustrating the effect of a far-infrared emitting bioceramic garment on postural control. FIG. 31 shows the results of variables before and after treatment with placebo FIR or FIR, values ​​are expressed as mean and standard deviation. The total length and area of ​​COP oscillation decreased after treatment in the experimental group, with the degree of decrease differing when the eyes were open (p<0.05) but not closed (p>0.05). No decrease in body oscillation was observed in the control group after placebo treatment when the eyes were open and closed (p>0.05). These results demonstrate that the FIR intervention resulted in less body oscillation, which resulted in greater orthostatic control.

[0319] Furthermore, as shown in Table 2, the experimental group showed a decrease in mediolateral and anterior-posterior deviations (width) of the COP after treatment in the open-eyes analysis, thereby demonstrating greater orthostatic control, whereas no significant differences were found in the control group (p>0.05). Mean velocity analysis of mediolateral and anterior-posterior deviations showed no statistically significant differences between groups (p>0.05).

[0320] [Table 2]

[0321] Table 3 shows that FIR treatment had no effect on orthostatic control of mediolateral and anteroposterior deviations of all analyzed parameters (width and mean velocity) in human subjects with eyes closed when compared with placebo FIR.

[0322] [Table 3]

[0323] Conclusion: These results demonstrate that FIR intervention resulted in less body vibration and consequently greater orthostatic control. The results obtained herein suggest that FIR garments may have practical clinical applications in balance disorders or for performance enhancing garments in both leisure activities and competitive sports.

[0324] Example 36: Effects of far-infrared emitting bioceramic garments on human subjects undergoing a Pilates exercise regimen. Objective: To investigate the effects of far-infrared emitting ceramic garments on flexibility, grip strength, balance, heart rate variability, and sleep quality.

[0325] Study Design: Double-blind, placebo-controlled study.

[0326] Intervention: Participants followed a beginner's Pilates protocol of one-hour sessions three times a week for eight weeks and were randomly divided into two different groups (placebo and bioceramic). The placebo group wore a sham far-infrared emitting ceramic shirt (without bioceramic), while participants in the bioceramic group wore a bioceramic shirt that emitted far-infrared energy during sleep (6-8 hours) every night for eight weeks.

[0327] evaluation: Sample size and population: 30 participants: 15 individuals in each group. Even distribution between gender / age.

[0328] Flexibility: The long sit forward bend bench test was used to measure flexibility. A baseline assessment was performed before the start of testing and before every Pilates session (3 times per week for 8 weeks). Grip strength: A grip strength meter was used to measure grip strength. A baseline assessment was performed before the start of testing and before every Pilates session (3 times per week for 8 weeks). Balance: A stabilometry / pressure measurement platform (S-Plate - Medicapteurs, France) was used to assess balance. Baseline assessment before the start of testing and after 6 weeks.

[0329] FIG. 32 is a graph illustrating the effect of far-infrared emitting bioceramic garments on flexibility and grip strength in Pilates practitioners. Baseline assessments were performed weekly before any intervention. When compared to the baseline assessments, * p<0.05 (t-test 95% confidence interval-Graphpad Prism software, USA, 2014). The results in FIG. 32 show that the use of the bioceramic shirt in combination with the Pilates sessions statistically increased the flexibility and grip strength of the participants.

[0330] Figures 33 and 34 are graphs illustrating the effect of far-infrared emitting bioceramic garments on the balance test of Pilates practitioners. Figure 33 is a graph illustrating the effect of far-infrared emitting bioceramic garments on the balance test (lateral) of Pilates practitioners: lateral length (panel A), lateral distance (panel B), lateral velocity (panel C). Figure 34 is a graph illustrating the effect of far-infrared emitting bioceramic garments on the balance test (anterior-posterior) of Pilates practitioners: anteroposterior length (panel A), anteroposterior distance (panel B), anteroposterior velocity (panel C). *p<0.05 indicates a statistically significant difference between groups. Baseline assessments were performed once a week before any intervention. (Paired t-test with 95% confidence intervals - Graphpad Prism software, USA, 2014). The results shown in Figures 33 and 34 indicate that the use of the bioceramic shirt in combination with the Pilates sessions statistically reduced anterior-posterior oscillations - overall length, distance from center and velocity, while the use of the placebo shirt statistically affected (to a lesser extent) overall length and distance from center.

[0331] Heart rate variability (HRV): Heart rate was assessed using a nerve express unit (Valley Stream, NY, USA). Baseline assessment before the start of the study and after 8 weeks. Figure 35 shows the effect of far-infrared emitting bioceramic garments on heart rate variability (HRV) in Pilates practitioners. Heart rate variability was assessed using a nerve express unit (Valley Stream, NY, USA). The results in Figure 35 show that the use of a far-infrared emitting bioceramic shirt, in addition to increasing rMSSD and HF (high frequency power), also reduced LF (low frequency power). The combination of these results indicates an overall increase in parasympathetic autonomic nervous system activity and a decrease in the sympathetic branch. (In this case, an increase in parasympathetic activity and a decrease in sympathetic activity indicates a more beneficial outcome). RMSSD (Root of the Mean Square Difference Between Adjacent NN Intervals): Commonly used as an index of cardiac control via the Vagus Nerve, it captures Respiratory Sinus Arrhythmia (RSA), the frequent changes in heart rate that occur in response to respiration. RMSSD is a commonly accepted measure of parasympathetic activity and correlates with HF in frequency domain analysis. High frequency power is a marker of parasympathetic activity. Low frequency power is a marker of both parasympathetic and sympathetic activity.

[0332] Sleep quality: Sleep quality was assessed using the Pittsburgh Quality of Sleep Questionnaire. Baseline assessment before the start of the study and after 8 weeks. Figures 36 and 37 show the results of the Pittsburgh Quality of Sleep Questionnaire. When compared to the baseline assessment, * p<0.05 (paired t-test with 95% confidence interval - Graphpad Prism software, USA, 2014).Several parameters were assessed, including daily impairment (Panel A of Figure 36), sleep quality (Panel B of Figure 36), sleep efficiency (Panel C of Figure 36), sleep time (Panel A of Figure 37), sleep disturbance (Panel B of Figure 37), and PQSI (Panel C of Figure 37).

[0333] Results: The results shown in Figure 4 indicate that use of the far-infrared emitting bioceramic shirt reduced the following indices (lower indices indicate more beneficial results): sleep duration: min=0 (better); max=3 (worse); sleep disorders: min=0 (better); max=3 (worse); overall sleep quality: min=0 (better); max=3 (worse); and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Questionnaire: min=0 (better); max=21 (worse).

[0334] Conclusion: The use of a far-infrared emitting bioceramic shirt during sleep increased sleep time and efficiency, increased parasympathetic nervous system activity, and decreased sympathetic nervous system activity, which are associated with more relaxed and better quality sleep. Our study demonstrated that the far-infrared radiation (FIR) generated by bioceramics promotes microcirculation (A), induces a decrease in muscle fatigue (B), reduces the effects of stress (C), and promotes pain relief and reduction of inflammatory diseases (D); the combination of these effects may lead to a more relaxed and efficient sleep.

[0335] Example 37: Effect of far-infrared emitting bioceramic garments on weight loss, changes in anthropometric measurements, and cellulite reduction. Objective: To investigate the effect of shorts containing bioceramics on weight loss, changes in anthropometric measurements, and cellulite reduction.

[0336] Study type: Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled. Women will be randomly assigned to an experimental group (cFIR group, participants will be asked to wear shorts impregnated with FIR-emitting ceramic material); and a control group (control group, participants will be asked to wear shorts impregnated with sham ceramic material, i.e., a ceramic material that does not provide far-infrared energy). Randomization numbers were randomly generated at a randomization site (randomization.com).

[0337] Materials and Methods: Thirty healthy adult women with moderate to severe cellulite (cellulite score of at least II from IV) as assessed by a physician-investigator will be randomized into either an experimental or control group (15 participants in each group). Participants will be blinded as to which group they have been assigned to. Participants will wear the shorts for at least 6 hours each day for 6 weeks.

[0338] Exclusion criteria included: Participants who underwent treatment for thigh cellulite reduction within one month of the start of the study; Participants with a history of deep vein thrombosis within the past 2 years; Participants with a history of congestive heart failure; Participants diagnosed with occlusive arterial disease of the legs; · Pregnant or breastfeeding participants; · Participants who used topical medications (e.g., corticosteroids) within the 2-week study period;

[0339] Parameters assessed: Initial, i.e. baseline, weight, cellulite and anthropometric measurements will be taken for each participant prior to the start of the study. Follow-up measurements will be taken approximately every 2 weeks from the start date of the study. Specific parameters being assessed include: Weight or Body Mass Index (BMI: weight in kg ÷ (height in m) 2 ). Mid-thigh circumference. Measurement of mid-thigh circumference at a set point with a curvilinear ruler can give an indirect measurement of local fat and possibly related to cellulite. Mid-thigh circumference measurements are obtained from both legs at 18 cm and 26 cm from the superior pole of the patella to the upper and lower legs, respectively, using a curvilinear ruler. Cellulite Observation. Direct or photographic visualization of skin irregularities such as puckering, dimpling, and nodularity is used to assess the level of cellulite. High quality color digital photographs are obtained from the posterior and lateral thighs by the investigator at the following angles: (a) Right thigh at 90° (b) Right thigh at 45° (c) Right thigh at 180° (d) Both thighs at 90° (e) Left thigh at 90° (f) Left thigh at 45° (g) Left thigh at 180°

[0340] The photographs will be reviewed by five blinded, independent board-certified dermatologists. · Skin elasticity. Measurement of skin tension with a suction elastometer allows estimation of the elasticity of the dermis, a function of connective tissue that helps to gauge the amount of cellulite present. Skin Conductivity. Conductivity is used to measure tissue resistance to electron flow and determine specific percentages of body composition (lean mass, fat mass, water).

[0341] Example 38: The effect of far-infrared emitting bioceramic clothing on muscle recovery and delayed onset muscle soreness. OBJECTIVE:To investigate the effect of bioceramic bottoms (shorts) on muscle recovery after a muscle-damaging protocol (strength), delayed onset muscle soreness, blood concentrations of CK (creatine kinase) and LDH (lactate dehydrogenase), blood concentrations of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β, IL-10 and IL-4), and blood concentrations of oxidative stress, as well as antioxidant enzyme activity (TBARS carbonyls, SOD and catalase).

[0342] Study type: Double-blind, placebo-controlled study.

[0343] Intervention: Subjects are randomly divided into two groups (placebo and bioceramic). Subjects in the placebo group wear sham bottoms (no bioceramic), while participants in the bioceramic group wear bottoms containing far-infrared emitting bioceramic. Subjects in both groups wear the intervention for two hours immediately following the start of the injury protocol (day 0). Subjects also wear the bottoms for an additional two hours beginning on day 1 (24 hours after the start of the muscle injury protocol), day 2 (48 hours after the start of the muscle injury protocol), and day 3 (72 hours after the start of the muscle injury protocol).

[0344] evaluation: a) Muscle strength recovery after muscle injury protocol: Quadriceps strength is assessed using isokinetic equipment (De Queen, AR, USA). Baseline assessments are performed prior to the start of the study, immediately following the muscle injury protocol, and on days 1, 2, and 3 (after use of the bottoms). b) Delayed onset muscle soreness is calculated with a visual analog scale for pain (VAS) questionnaire. Baseline assessments are performed before the start of the study, immediately after the muscle injury protocol, and on days 1, 2, and 3 (after use of the bottoms). c) Blood levels of CK (creatine kinase) and LDH (lactate dehydrogenase), pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β, IL-10 and IL-4), oxidative stress markers and antioxidant enzyme activities (TBARS carbonyls, SOD and catalase) will be measured by biochemical analysis (ELISA). Baseline assessments will be performed before the start of the study, immediately after the muscle damage protocol and on days 1, 2 and 3 (after use of the bottoms).

[0345] Sample size and population: 30 participants: 15 individuals in each group. Even distribution between gender / age.

[0346] Example 39: Evaluation of biomodulation induced by the use of an infrared emitting ceramic shirt in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Objective: This study evaluated the biomodulation effect induced by the use of a shirt impregnated with cFIR in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). COPD is defined as a chronic and progressive reduction in airflow secondary to an abnormal inflammatory response in the lungs. One of the hallmarks of COPD is a decrease in aerobic capacity and muscle strength, which leads to a loss of functionality and exercise intolerance, negatively impacting the patient's quality of life.

[0347] Inclusion Criteria: Subjects of both genders diagnosed with COPD were recruited according to the following criteria: indicating clinical diagnosis of COPD and age (subjects were over 40 years old).

[0348] Exclusion criteria: Presence of a disabling comorbidity and / or exacerbation of COPD in the past 6 months.

[0349] For the treatment, BioPower® brand bioceramic impregnated T-shirts were used. Participants wore the T-shirts at night (6-8 hours) for 3 consecutive weeks. Evaluations were performed before and after treatment. The modified Medical Research Council Dyspnoea Scale (mMRC) was used to classify the functional clinical status of each patient. The London Chest Activity of Daily Living scale (LCADL) and the 6-minute walk test (6MWT) were used to assess functional capacity. Autonomic nervous system activity was assessed by analysis of heart rate variability. Thirteen patients were recruited, with 3 dropouts. Thus, the sample consisted of 10 individuals with COPD, with a mean age of 63.70 years and a mean weight of 26.19 kg / m 2 The subjects had a mean BMI of 2.01 and a cigarette history of 24.41 pack-years. Forty percent of the sample were female and 60% were male.

[0350] Analysis of the LCADL questionnaire showed that patients underwent a statistically significant improvement (p<0.01) when compared to the pre-treatment state (Figure 38). In the pre-treatment analysis, patients had a mean ratio of total scores of 42.88% and 40.36% in the post-treatment evaluation.

[0351] In the 6MWT, patients showed a 5.37% increase in predicted distance using the BMI criteria of Equation 1. Figure 39 illustrates the results of the 6MWT (Performance-Based Functional Mobility Test) using Equation 1 (Panel A), Equation 2 (Panel B), and distance walked before and after treatment (Panel C). The vertical columns represent the mean values ​​of the 10 patients, and the vertical lines correspond to the standard error of the mean (SEM). When comparing pre-treatment symptoms with post-treatment symptoms, ** p<0.01 (paired t-test). These data were corroborated by analysis of Equation 2 (using ΔHR in the baseline equation), where predicted distance increased by 8.32%. Furthermore, results showed an increase of 36 meters when compared to the pre-treatment assessment.

[0352] Figure 40 shows the results of heart rate variability (frequency domain) in COPD patients evaluated before and after treatment. (Panel A) Low frequency (ms2), (Panel B) Low frequency (nu), (Panel C) High frequency (ms2), (Panel D) High frequency (nu). The vertical columns represent the average of 10 patients and the vertical lines correspond to the standard error of the mean (SEM). When comparing pre-treatment symptoms with post-treatment symptoms, ** p<0.01 (paired t test).

[0353] FIG. 41 shows the results of heart rate variability (frequency domain) in COPD patients evaluated before and after treatment. (Panel A) RR interval, (Panel B) HR interval, (Panel C) component SDNN, (Panel D) rMSSD. The vertical columns represent the mean values ​​of 10 patients, and the vertical lines correspond to the standard error of the mean (SEM). When comparing pre-treatment symptoms with post-treatment symptoms, ** p<0.01 (paired t test).

[0354] Analysis of heart rate variability showed a decrease in low frequency parameters, indicating a decreased activity of the sympathetic nervous system. Based on these data, far infrared therapy with a cFIR-impregnated shirt, in addition to increasing performance-based functional exercise capacity and decreasing daily limitations, also decreased sympathetic nervous system activity in patients with COPD.

[0355] Example 40: Evaluation of the effects of a far-infrared emitting ceramic shirt on oxygen consumption, heart rate and sleep quality: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study with young baseball players. Objective: This study investigated the effects of a far-infrared emitting ceramic shirt on oxygen consumption, heart rate, and sleep quality.

[0356] Study Design: Double-blind, placebo-controlled study.

[0357] Intervention: Participants were randomly divided into two different groups (placebo and Biopower). The Biopower group wore Biopower's far-infrared emitting ceramic shirt (with bioceramic), while participants in the placebo group wore a fake shirt (with bioceramic) during their nightly sleep (6-8 hours) for 6 weeks.

[0358] Assessments included: a) initial VO2 consumption; b) maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max); c) aerobic threshold (AeT); d) anaerobic threshold (AnT); e) heart rate (VO2max, AeT and AnT); and f) sleep quality. Oxygen consumption and heart rate assessments were performed with the CardioCoach (VO2 assessment device - KORR Medical Technologies, Salt Lake City, UT, USA). Sleep quality was assessed with the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Questionnaire. All participants were assessed before the start of the study (baseline) and after 6 weeks.

[0359] Sample size and population: 30 participants: 15 individuals in the control group (fake shirts) and 15 individuals in the experimental group (bioceramic shirts). All participants were healthy male baseball players.

[0360] FIG. 42 shows results regarding early VO2 expenditure in young baseball players: Panel A shows early VO2 expenditure. Panel B shows the percentage of participants with higher early VO2. Panel C shows early heart rate, and Panel D shows the percentage of participants with lower early heart rate. Vertical columns represent the mean of 12-15 participants, respectively, and vertical lines show standard error of the mean. NS represents not statistically significant (t-test 95% confidence interval-Graphpad Prism software, USA, 2014). The results shown in FIG. 42 Panel A suggest that use of the bioceramic shirt increased early VO2 in a statistically non-significant manner.

[0361] FIG. 43 shows the results of VO2max expenditure in young baseball players: Panel A shows VO2max and Panel B shows the percentage of participants with a higher VO2max. Panel C shows the subjects' heart rates at VO2max, and Panel D shows the percentage of participants with lower heart rates at VO2max. Vertical columns represent the average of 12-15 participants each, and vertical lines indicate the standard error of the mean. NS indicates not statistically significant. When compared to baseline assessments * p<0.05 (t-test 95% confidence interval-Graphpad Prism software, USA, 2014). Panel C of Figure 43 suggests that use of the bioceramic shirt reduced participants' heart rate at VO2max. Additionally, a higher percentage of subjects in the group wearing the bioceramic T-shirt exhibited a higher VO2max and lower heart rate when compared to baseline than the placebo group (Panels B-D). Results were measured after 6 weeks for each group.

[0362] FIG. 44 shows aerobic threshold results for young baseball players: Panel A shows aerobic threshold (AeT), Panel B shows the percentage of participants with higher AeT. Panel C shows heart rate at AeT, and Panel D shows the percentage of participants with lower heart rate at AeT. Vertical columns represent the average of 12-15 participants, respectively, and vertical lines indicate standard error of the mean. NS denotes not statistically significant. When compared to baseline assessments. * p<0.05 (t-test 95% confidence interval-Graphpad Prism software, USA, 2014). The results shown in FIG. 44, panel C, suggest that use of the bioceramic shirt reduced the subjects' heart rate at AeT. Additionally, a higher percentage of subjects in the group wearing the bioceramic T-shirt exhibited higher AeT and lower heart rate when compared to baseline than the placebo group (panels BD). Results were measured after 6 weeks for each group.

[0363] FIG. 45 shows anaerobic threshold results in young baseball players: Panel A shows anaerobic threshold (AnT), Panel B shows the percentage of participants with higher AnT. Panel C shows heart rate at AnT, and Panel D shows the percentage of participants with lower heart rate at AnT. Vertical columns represent the average of 12-15 participants, respectively, and vertical lines indicate standard error of the mean. NS represents not statistically significant. When compared to baseline assessments. * p<0.05 (t-test 95% confidence interval-Graphpad Prism software, USA, 2014). The results shown in Figure 44, Panel C, suggest that the use of the bioceramic shirt reduced participants' heart rates at AnT. Furthermore, a higher percentage of participants in the Biopower group showed higher AeT and lower heart rates when compared to baseline than the placebo group (Panels BD). Results were measured after 6 weeks for each group.

[0364] FIG. 46 illustrates the results of heart rate recovery 1 minute after assessment in young baseball players: Panel A shows heart rate recovery 1 minute after assessment, Panel B shows the percentage of participants with a higher percentage of recovery, Panel C shows heart rate recovery 2 minutes after assessment, and Panel D shows the percentage of participants with a higher percentage of recovery. Vertical columns represent the average of 12-15 participants, respectively, and vertical lines indicate the standard error of the mean. NS represents not statistically significant. (t-test 95% confidence interval - Graphpad Prism software, USA, 2014).

[0365] Figures 47A and 47B show the results of the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Questionnaire. Vertical columns represent the average of 12-15 participants, respectively, and vertical lines indicate the standard error of the mean. When compared to the baseline assessment, * p<0.05 (paired t-test 95% confidence interval-Graphpad Prism software, USA, 2014). The overall results shown in Figures 47A and 47B suggest that the use of Biopower far-infrared emitting ceramic shirts statistically reduced the following indices (lower indices indicate more beneficial results): Sleep latency, Panel E of Figure 47B: Min=0 (better); Max=3 (worse); and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Questionnaire, Panel F of Figure 47B: Min=0 (better); Max=21 (worse). The differences between the Bioceramic group and the control group for Panels AC of Figure 47A (sleep time, sleep disturbance, daily impairment) and Panel A of Figure 47B (daily impairment due to sleepiness) were not statistically significant.

[0366] While preferred embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described herein, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that such embodiments are provided by way of example only. Numerous variations, changes, and substitutions will occur to those skilled in the art without departing from the present invention. It is understood that various alternatives to the embodiments of the present invention described herein may be utilized in the practice of the present invention. It is intended that the following claims define the scope of the present invention, and that methods and structures within the scope of these claims and their equivalents are covered thereby.

Claims

1. An article of manufacture comprising a composition comprising a bioceramic, which when heated or exposed to heat, provides a biomodifying or physiological effect when the article is applied to a subject.

2. 10. The product of claim 1, wherein the biomodifying or physiological effect comprises pain regulation, increased muscle endurance, regulation of the cardiopulmonary system, regulation of cellular metabolism, analgesia, antioxidant effect, anti-fibromyalgia effect, reduced inflammation, reduced oxidative stress, regulation of cytokine levels, regulation of blood circulation, reduced intolerance to cold and hot environments, reduced symptoms of arthritis or vascular disease, increased skin perfusion, reduced heart rate, reduced blood pressure, aesthetic effects, or reduction in cellulite in a subject.

3. 10. The article of claim 1, wherein the bioceramic composition emits, transmits, and / or reflects infrared wavelengths when heated or exposed to heat.

4. 4. The article of claim 3, wherein the infrared wavelength is far infrared, including wavelengths from about 1 micrometer to about 1 millimeter.

5. 4. The article of claim 3, wherein the infrared wavelength is from about 3 micrometers to about 15 micrometers.

6. 10. The article of claim 1, wherein the reflectance of the bioceramic at room temperature of 25°C is at least 80% in the infrared region between about 7 micrometers and about 12 micrometers.

7. 10. The article of manufacture of claim 1, wherein the article is selected from the group consisting of clothing, jewelry, patches, pads, shoe insoles, bedding, personal supports, foam rollers, lotions, soaps, tapes, glassware, furniture, paints, inks, labels, carpets, mats, food and / or beverage containers, beverage koozies, headwear, footwear, earphones, court surfaces, sports court surfaces, artificial turf, and combinations thereof.

8. The article of manufacture of claim 1 , wherein the article of manufacture comprises a garment.

9. The article of manufacture of claim 8 , wherein the garment comprises a shirt, a jacket, shorts, or pants.

10. 10. The article of manufacture of claim 8, wherein the garment comprises a wristband, a pad, a knee bracelet, an anklet, a sleeve, or a patch.

11. The bioceramic composition comprises: a. about 20 wt % to about 80 wt % kaolinite (Al ２ S ２ O ５ (OH) ４ ). b. about 1 wt % to about 30 wt % tourmaline; c. about 1 wt % to about 40 wt % aluminum oxide (Al ２ O ３ ). d. about 1 wt % to about 40 wt % silicon dioxide (SiO ２ ); and e. about 1 wt % to about 20 wt % zirconium oxide (ZrO ２ ). The product of claim 1 , wherein the amount is by total weight of the bioceramic composition.

12. The bioceramic composition includes: a. about 40 wt% to about 60 wt% kaolinite (Al ２ S ２ O ５ (OH) ４ ). b. about 5 wt % to about 15 wt % tourmaline; c. about 15 wt % to about 25 wt % aluminum oxide (Al ２ O ３ ). d. about 10 wt % to about 20 wt % silicon dioxide (SiO ２ ); and e. about 1 wt % to about 20 wt % zirconium oxide (ZrO ２ ).

12. The article of manufacture of claim 11.

13. 12. The product of claim 11, wherein the kaolinite is in the range of about 45 wt% to about 55 wt%.

14. 13. The product of claim 12, wherein the kaolinite is in the range of about 47 wt% to about 53 wt%.

15. 13. The product of claim 12, wherein the kaolinite is in the range of about 48 wt% to about 52 wt%.

16. The bioceramic composition comprises a. About 50 wt% kaolinite (Al ２ S ２ O ５ (OH) ４ ). b. about 10 wt % tourmaline; c. Approximately 18 wt % aluminum oxide (Al ２ O ３ ). d. About 14 wt % silicon dioxide (SiO ２ ); and e. Approximately 8 wt % zirconium oxide (ZrO ２ ) The article of manufacture of claim 11 comprising:

17. Tourmaline is NaFe ２＋ ３ A ６ S ６ O １８ (BO ３ ) ３ (OH) ３ 17. A product according to any one of claims 11 to 16, comprising OH.

18. 10. The article of claim 1, wherein the largest dimension of any particle in the bioceramic is from about 0.1 micrometers to about 250 micrometers.

19. 10. The article of claim 1, wherein the largest dimension of any particle in the bioceramic is from about 0.5 micrometers to about 25 micrometers.

20. The article of manufacture of claim 1 , wherein the composition further comprises a substrate, a binder, a solvent, a polymer, or an ink.

21. 21. The article of claim 20, wherein the composition further comprises a substrate comprising at least one elastomer.

22. 21. The article of claim 20, wherein the composition comprises a polymer selected from the group consisting of polyoxybenzyl methylene glycol anhydride, polyvinyl chloride, polystyrene, polyethylene, polypropylene, polyacrylonitrile, polyvinyl butyral, polylactic acid, and combinations thereof.

23. 22. The article of claim 21, wherein the elastomer is selected from the group consisting of polychloroprene, nylon, polyvinyl chloride elastomers, polystyrene elastomers, polyethylene elastomers, polypropylene elastomers, polyvinyl butyral elastomers, silicones, thermoplastic elastomers, and combinations thereof.

24. 21. The article of claim 20, wherein the substrate comprises a material selected from the group consisting of wool, silk, cotton, canvas, jute, glass, nylon, polyester, acrylic, elastane, polychloroprene, laminated fabrics containing expanded polytetrafluoroethylene, and combinations thereof.

25. The article of claim 1 , wherein the bioceramic composition further comprises a polygel.

26. 10. The method of claim 1, wherein the biomodulatory or physiological effect comprises a statistically significant change.

27. 7. The product of claim 6, wherein the biomodulatory or physiological effect comprises a change in effect that is at least 5%.

28. 7. The product of claim 6, wherein the biomodulatory or physiological effect comprises a change in effect that is at least 10%.

29. 3. The article of manufacture of claim 2, wherein the pain is caused by physical activity.

30. 1. A non-invasive method of producing a biomodifying or physiological effect in or on a subject, comprising contacting the skin of the subject with a product comprising a bioceramic, The bioceramic composition, when heated or exposed to heat, provides far infrared thermal radiation and a biomodifying or physiological effect to a subject in a non-invasive manner.

31. 1. A method for preparing a product comprising the steps of: (a) preparing a bioceramic solution; and (b) applying the solution to a product; The solution, when applied to the product, contains about 20 wt % to about 80 wt % kaolinite (Al ２ S ２ O ５ (OH) ４ ); from about 1 wt % to about 30 wt % tourmaline; from about 1 wt % to about 40 wt % aluminum oxide (Al ２ O ３ ); from about 1 wt % to about 40 wt % silicon dioxide (SiO ２ ); and about 1 wt % to about 20 wt % zirconium oxide (ZrO ２ ), the amount being by total weight of the bioceramic composition.

32. 1. A method for preparing a product comprising the steps of: (a) preparing a bioceramic solution; and (b) applying the solution onto a product; A method wherein the bioceramic, when heated or exposed to heat, provides a biomodifying or physiological effect when the product is applied to a subject.

33. 33. The method of claim 31 or 32, wherein the solution is applied to the product by a spray technique to the interior or exterior of the product.

34. 33. The method of claim 31 or 32, wherein the solution, optionally using a dye, is applied to the product by silk screening techniques to the interior or exterior of the product.

35. 33. The method of claim 31 or 32, wherein no ink is used in the method.

36. 33. The method of claim 31 or 32, wherein the solution is applied to the article by dipping or impregnating the article in the slurry or solution.

37. 33. The method of claim 31 or 32, wherein the bioceramic solution comprises a polymer.

38. 38. The method of claim 37, wherein the polymer is a silicone polymer.

39. 33. The method of claim 31 or 32, wherein the solution is applied to the interior of the product, the exterior of the product, or to specific areas of the product.

40. 33. The method of claim 31 or 32, wherein the solution is applied as small dots on the product.

41. (a) about 20 wt % to about 80 wt % kaolinite (Al ２ S ２ O ５ (OH) ４ ). (b) about 1 wt % to about 30 wt % tourmaline; (c) about 1 wt % to about 40 wt % aluminum oxide (Al ２ O ３ ). (d) about 1 wt % to about 40 wt % silicon dioxide (SiO ２ ); and (e) about 1 wt % to about 20 wt % zirconium oxide (ZrO ２ ) , The amount is by total weight of the bioceramic composition.

42. (a) about 40 wt. % to about 60 wt. % kaolinite (Al ２ S ２ O ５ (OH) ４ ). (b) about 5 wt % to about 15 wt % tourmaline; (c) about 15 wt % to about 25 wt % aluminum oxide (Al ２ O ３ ). (d) about 10 wt % to about 20 wt % silicon dioxide (SiO ２ ); and (e) about 1 wt % to about 20 wt % zirconium oxide (ZrO ２ 42. The composition of claim 41 comprising:

43. 42. The composition of claim 41, wherein the kaolinite is in the range of about 45 wt% to about 55 wt%.

44. 42. The composition of claim 41, wherein the kaolinite is in the range of about 47 wt% to about 53 wt%.

45. 42. The composition of claim 41, wherein the kaolinite is in the range of about 48 wt% to about 52 wt%.

46. a. About 50 wt% kaolinite (Al ２ S ２ O ５ (OH) ４ ). b. about 10 wt % tourmaline; c. Approximately 18 wt % aluminum oxide (Al ２ O ３ ). d. About 14 wt % silicon dioxide (SiO ２ ); and e. Approximately 8 wt % zirconium oxide (ZrO ２ ) 42. The composition of claim 41 , comprising:

47. Tourmaline is NaFe ２＋ ３ A ６ S ６ O １８ (BO ３ ) ３ (OH) ３ 47. The composition of any one of claims 41 to 46, comprising OH.

48. A bioceramic composition for use in treating pain in a subject in need of relief.

49. 49. The bioceramic composition of claim 48, wherein the pain is caused by physical activity.

50. A bioceramic composition for use in increasing muscle endurance in a subject.

51. 51. The bioceramic composition of claim 50, wherein muscle endurance is increased by at least 0.5%.

52. 51. The bioceramic composition of claim 50, wherein muscle endurance is increased by at least 5%.

53. 51. The bioceramic composition of claim 50, wherein muscle endurance is increased by at least 10%.

54. A bioceramic composition for use in enhancing cardiopulmonary endurance in a subject.

55. 55. The bioceramic composition of claim 54, wherein the cardiopulmonary endurance of the subject is enhanced by at least 0.5%.

56. 55. The bioceramic composition of claim 54, wherein the cardiopulmonary endurance of the subject is enhanced by at least 5%.

57. A bioceramic composition for use in increasing the flexibility of a subject.

58. A bioceramic composition for use in treating analgesia in a subject.

59. A bioceramic composition for use in treating fibromyalgia in a subject.

60. A bioceramic composition for use in treating inflammation in a subject.

61. A bioceramic composition for use in modulating cytokine levels in a subject.

62. A bioceramic composition for use in treating arthritis in a subject.

63. Use of a bioceramic composition in the manufacture of a garment for treating pain.

64. Use of a bioceramic composition in the manufacture of a garment for treating inflammation.

65. Use of a bioceramic composition in the manufacture of a garment for treating fibromyalgia.

66. Use of a bioceramic composition in the manufacture of a garment for treating analgesia.

67. Use of a bioceramic composition in the manufacture of a garment for improving muscle endurance in a subject.

68. Use of a bioceramic composition in the manufacture of a garment for improving the cardiopulmonary endurance of a subject.

69. Use of a bioceramic composition in the manufacture of a garment to increase the flexibility of a subject.

70. 1. A method of treating pain in a subject, comprising: contacting the skin of a subject with a product comprising a bioceramic; The bioceramic composition, when heated or exposed to heat, provides far infrared thermal radiation to treat pain.

71. 1. A method of treating inflammation in a subject, comprising: contacting the skin of a subject with a product comprising a bioceramic; The bioceramic composition, when heated or exposed to heat, provides far infrared thermal radiation to treat inflammation.

72. 1. A method of treating analgesia in a subject, comprising: contacting the skin of a subject with a product comprising a bioceramic; The bioceramic composition, when heated or exposed to heat, provides far infrared thermal radiation to treat analgesia.

73. 1. A method of treating fibromyalgia in a subject, comprising: contacting the skin of a subject with a product comprising a bioceramic; The bioceramic composition, when heated or exposed to heat, provides far infrared thermal radiation to treat fibromyalgia.

74. 1. A method of treating arthritis in a subject, comprising: contacting the skin of a subject with a product comprising a bioceramic; The bioceramic composition, when heated or exposed to heat, provides far infrared thermal radiation to treat arthritis.

75. 1. A method for increasing muscle endurance in a subject, comprising: contacting the skin of a subject with a product comprising a bioceramic; The bioceramic composition, when heated or exposed to heat, provides far infrared thermal radiation and increases muscle endurance in a subject.

76. 1. A method for enhancing cardiopulmonary endurance in a subject, comprising: contacting the skin of a subject with a product comprising a bioceramic; The bioceramic composition, when heated or exposed to heat, provides far infrared thermal radiation and enhances cardiopulmonary endurance in a subject.

77. 1. A method of increasing flexibility in a subject, comprising: contacting the skin of a subject with a product comprising a bioceramic; The method, wherein the bioceramic composition, when heated or exposed to heat, provides far infrared thermal radiation and increases the flexibility of the subject.

78. 1. A shirt comprising a bioceramic, The shirt containing the bioceramic generates at least 1.5 Joules / cm when heated or exposed to heat. ２ A shirt that delivers far-infrared energy to a subject.

79. The shirt is at least 10 Joules / cm ２ 79. The shirt of claim 78, which delivers far infrared energy of about 100 nm to a subject.

80. The shirt is at least 20 Joules / cm ２ 80. The shirt of claim 79, which delivers far infrared energy to a subject.

81. The shirt must be at least 25 Joules / cm ２ 81. The shirt of claim 80, which provides a subject with far infrared radiation of .

82. The shirt is 1.5 joules / cm ２ Up to 45 Joules / cm ２ 79. The shirt of claim 78, which provides a subject with far infrared radiation of .

83. Shirt: 2 Joules / cm ２ Up to 10 Joules / cm ２ 83. The shirt of claim 82, which provides a subject with far infrared radiation of .

84. A shirt is at most 45 joules / cm ２ 79. The shirt of claim 78, which provides a subject with far infrared radiation of .

85. Bioceramics include: a. about 20 wt % to about 80 wt % kaolinite (Al ２ S ２ O ５ (OH) ４ ). b. about 1 wt % to about 30 wt % tourmaline; c. about 1 wt % to about 40 wt % aluminum oxide (Al ２ O ３ ). d. about 1 wt % to about 40 wt % silicon dioxide (SiO ２ ); and e. about 1 wt % to about 20 wt % zirconium oxide (ZrO ２ ).

80. The shirt of claim 78, wherein the amount is by total weight of the bioceramic composition.

86. Bioceramics include: a. about 40 wt% to about 60 wt% kaolinite (Al ２ S ２ O ５ (OH) ４ ). b. about 5 wt % to about 15 wt % tourmaline; c. about 15 wt % to about 25 wt % aluminum oxide (Al ２ O ３ ). d. about 10 wt % to about 20 wt % silicon dioxide (SiO ２ ); and e. about 1 wt % to about 20 wt % zirconium oxide (ZrO ２ ).

79. The shirt of claim 78.

87. 1. A method of treating a disease in a subject in need thereof, comprising: a) contacting the skin of a subject with a product comprising a bioceramic, the bioceramic composition providing far-infrared thermal radiation upon contact with the skin of the subject to treat a disease in the subject; and b) providing to the subject an adjunctive therapeutic regimen.

88. 88. The method of claim 87, wherein the adjunctive therapy is physical therapy.

89. 89. The method of claim 88, wherein the adjunctive therapy is hydrotherapy.

90. 89. The method of claim 88, wherein the adjunctive therapy is physical rehabilitation.

91. 90. The method of claim 88, wherein the adjunctive therapy comprises an additional substance provided by the product.

92. 92. The method of claim 91, wherein the additional substance is menthol.

93. 93. The method of claim 92, wherein the dosage of menthol provided by the product is from about 1 mg to about 2000 mg.

94. 92. The method of claim 91, wherein the additional substance is capsaicin, menthol, or a medicinal herb.

95. 93. The method of claim 92, wherein the dosage of capsaicin provided by the product is from about 1 mg to about 2000 mg.

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