Abstract: The composite material comprises an elastic film (F), made of polymer material, and a coating made of flocked fibers (13) on at least one face. The fibers are fixed to the film by a layer (C) of bonding material.

Abstract: An extensible composite member (1) including an extensible portion (10) having two sheet materials (2, 3) and elastic members (4) intermediate between the sheet materials. The two sheet materials (2, 3) are discontinuously bonded to each other in the extending direction of the extensible portion (10) (X direction) and a direction perpendicular thereto (Y direction). The elastic members (4) are arranged in the extensible portion (10) avoiding joints (5) between the sheet materials and have both ends thereof fixed to the sheet materials. Each of the two sheet materials (2, 3) forms folds (6) continuously running across a plurality of the elastic members (4).

Abstract: The scrotal support garment includes a fabric material that forms a cup to support a wearer's scrotal sack and contents thereof. The cup has a wide upper end that tapers to a narrow lower end. An elongated thong extends from the lower end of the cup. In one embodiment, the thong bifurcates to form left and right shoulder straps that are unitary members extending to opposite sides of the upper end of the cup. In another embodiment, the thong bifurcates to form a first portion of left and right shoulder straps. Elongated second portions of the left and right shoulder straps extend from opposite sides of the cup. The first and second portions are joined by adjustment straps or releasable fasteners, such as buckles, so that the length of the shoulder straps is adjustable.

Abstract: A disposable, substantially non-absorbent undergarment has a crotch region in combination with, and onto which a sanitary napkin or panty liner member is attached. Upraised side ridges bounding the crotch region of the panty both eliminate leakage, without adding to bulk of the undergarment, and present a defined area where at least one panty liner unit of the panty liner member is attached.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for determining illustrations for a diaper to be worn, for example, by an infant. With the present invention's illustration determination method, for a diaper, comprising a main body, fitted onto the body of an infant, and an illustration displaying part, provided on the main body for displaying an illustration, the abovementioned illustration is determined based on the age in months of the infant. The illustration can arouse interest of an infant definitely since the object of interest of an infant depends on his/her age in months. An infant can thus be made to calm down during diaper exchange and the labor of diaper exchange can be alleviated.

Abstract: There is provided a personal care product having a body side liner, a baffle and an indicator strip with two ends. The indicator has an amine sensitive dye near at least one end. The indicator extends from the target area just below the liner to just above the baffle such that the dye deposit is visible to an unaided eye. The dye changes color in the presence of amines which are characteristic of infection, thus alerting the user to the possibility of infection. Such an indicator placed in a feminine hygiene pad, for example, may be useful in the diagnosis of vaginits.

Abstract: A method for identifying physiological conditions associated with a biological fluid secreted from a person, by providing a secretion-monitoring article of a body that includes an absorbent material for absorbing a biological fluid secreted from a person and an indicator system having a hydrophobic chemical composition that includes an indicator agent and an ion-balance reagent of a quaternary amine; wearing the article in a position to receive the biological fluid secreted from the person; and visualizing the indicator system for an indication of physiological conditions associated with the biological fluid, which indication is typically a measurement of the pH or buffer capacities of the fluid and is stable for at least 48 hours.

Abstract: High absorbency lyocell fibers are obtainable by hydrothermal treatment. The fibers can be treated with water at temperatures of at least about 60° C. to provide lyocell fibers that can be formed into a random fibrous plug having a mass of 2 g, a density of 0.4 g/cm3, and a diameter of 25 mm which has a GAT Absorbency (at 15 min.) of at least about 3.7 g/g.

Abstract: An interlabial absorbent article configured for disposition primarily within the vestibule of a female wearer includes a generally liquid permeable cover sheet, a generally liquid impermeable back sheet, and an absorbent material disposed between the cover sheet and the back sheet. The back sheet has a water vapor transmission rate that is at least about 20% of a water vapor transmission rate of the cover sheet. The cover sheet and said back sheet may have a contact angle mismatch of less than about 25%. The absorbent material may have a density greater than water. Upon being flushed, the article has an initial neutral buoyancy and subsequently sinks within about 7 days from being flushed.

Abstract: An access disconnect sensor for a patient undergoing extracorporeal blood processing includes an electrochemical fuel cell or sensor to detect blood leakage. The fuel cell includes circuitry for oxidizing glucose in the blood. The sensor also includes a transmitter to send a signal to a remote receiver that the sensor indicates the presence of blood. The circuitry may include a battery or may use electricity generated by the sensor to send a signal indicating a leak of blood or disconnection of the access needle.

Abstract: A color-stable superabsorbent polymer having long-term color stability, and methods of manufacturing the polymer, are disclosed. The superabsorbent polymer is prepared using a sulfinic acid derivative, like 2-hydroxy-2-sulfinatoacetic acid, a salt thereof, or a mixture thereof, as the reducing agent in a polymerization initiator system for the preparation of a superabsorbent polymer from monomers. The resulting superabsorbent polymer resists color degradation during periods of extended storage, even at an elevated temperature and humidity.

Abstract: A limited use, disposable article (20), comprises a matrix-substrate (22), and an electrically-conductive region (24) of a separately provided, electrically-conductive material that has been operatively applied to the matrix-substrate from a viscous configuration of the electrically-conductive material. The matrix-substrate includes a first matrix-region (26), and at least a second matrix-region (28). At least the second matrix-region (28) can include a treatment that provides for an operative formation of a selected resistivity in the electrically-conductive region. The first matrix-region (26) has a high resistivity, and the electrically-conductive region (24) is positioned operatively adjacent the second matrix-region (28). The electrically-conductive region (24) has a low resistivity, as determined when the electrically-conductive region is positioned operatively adjacent the second matrix-region and configured for its intended use.

Abstract: A personal absorbent pad that includes a front panel, a back panel, two sides, and an adornment. The two sides are configured to fit between a pair of breasts so as to hold the pad in place. The absorbent pad has an adornment.

Abstract: A feminine hygiene device to wipe seminal and other fluids from the vagina after sexual intercourse.

Abstract: A hygiene discretion system includes at least two articles where at least one is an absorbent garment including a shell with an absorbent member attached to the shell and at least one non-absorbent garment. The shell of the disposable absorbent garment substantially matches the non-absorbent garment. In some aspects, a secondary garment is also provided which coordinates with one of the other garments. In some aspects, replacement garments are provided. Any number of the garments may be placed in the same container.

Abstract: An absorbent article that contains a substrate treated with a decolorizing composition that can discharge the color of bodily exudates is provided. More specifically, a boundary zone located at the periphery of the substrate is treated with the decolorizing composition. Thus, when the substrate is incorporated into an absorbent article, the decolorizing composition may help discharge color at the edges of the article where leakage is most likely to occur. An interior zone of the substrate, however, is left substantially untreated with the decolorizing composition. This enables a user to observe and inspect the bodily exudates for infection or other health related conditions, and also allows the decolorizing composition to be applied only to those portions of the substrate needed to achieve the desired effect so that the untreated zone can continue to fulfill its other functions.

Abstract: Hydrophilic compositions are described, which are prepared from a first oligomer containing pendent polymerizable groups and pendent hydrophilic groups, crosslinked with a co-reactive second component oligomer possessing photoinitiator groups. The compositions may be used as in preparation of hydrophilic gel coatings or layers for medical devices.

Abstract: A layered fibrous structure having a machine direction, cross machine direction, and Z-direction. The fibrous structure also has a consumer side and first and second layers in the Z-direction where the first layer has a plurality of trichomes. The trichomes make up greater than about 0.1%, by weight, of the fibrous structure.

Abstract: A method for hydrophilizing a hydrophobic surface of a substrate includes the steps of (a) defining a temperature range of: (i) greater than or equal to an anticipated lower use temperature (LUT), or (ii) less than or equal to an anticipated upper use temperature (UUT), or (iii) from a LUT to an UUT, wherein LUT?UUT, within which the substrate is intended to be used in the presence of water, and (b) depositing at least one polymer on at least a portion of the surface, said polymer being soluble in water to the extent that an aqueous solution of such polymer exhibits: (i) a lower critical solution temperature (LCST), wherein LCST<LUT, or (ii) an upper critical solution temperature (UCST), wherein UUT<UCST, or (iii) a LCST and a UCST, wherein UCST<LCST and: (1) LCST<LUT, or (2) UUT<UCST.

Abstract: A composite nonwoven fabric having latent elasticity is provided having a latently elastic core comprising a first component that includes a thermoplastic elastomer and a second component that includes a single site catalyzed polyolefin, and at least one gatherable facing material laminated to the elastic core. The first and second components may be, for example, in the form of alternating filaments of styrenic block copolymer and single site catalyzed polyolefin or in the form of conjugate filaments having a first section of styrenic block copolymer and a second section of single site catalyzed polyolefin. Also disclosed are methods of making the latently elastic stretch bonded laminates and personal care articles containing the latently elastic stretch bonded laminates.

Abstract: A non-irritating multi-ply absorbent article made by treating an inner surface with one or more antimicrobial agents and treating the one or more outer surfaces with one or more siloxane compositions, and methods of making and using the same. The antimicrobial agent will remain confined to the inner portion of the absorbent article, thereby preventing irritation to the user, and the siloxane treated ply(s) will provide a pleasing, soothing, non-irritating tactile quality. In one embodiment, the siloxane composition comprises an amine-modified polysiloxane, in which case the product will also entrap any absorbed fluid, holding it in contact with the antimicrobial agent, and preventing it from wetting through the product and contacting the user.

Abstract: The invention relates to a skin care article exhibiting a scrub cleaning effect by friction and comprising at least one first and one second external layer made of a fibrous material. The inventive article is characterized in that the first layer (10, 10?, 10?) forms an absorbing cushion and substantially consists of low-micronaire cellulose fibers, in particular less than 8, and the second layer (20, 20?, 20?) is substentially consists of high-micronaire fibers, in particular of micronaire higher than 8, said layers being selected from the following materials: flax, ramie, sisal, jute and hemp separate or mixed.

Abstract: An absorbent article including a cover layer, a barrier layer, and a stabilizing layer arranged between said cover layer and said barrier layer. The stabilizing layer has a Dry Stiffness Index of at least about 0.9 g/gsm and a Wet Stiffness Loss of at least about 80%.

Abstract: A two-way stretch disposable diaper formed from four cooperating layers, a microfiber top layer to keep the wearer dry, an absorbent pad to collect body exudates, a waterproof layer to keep absorbed fluids within the pad, and a two-way stretch outer support layer. The top layer is formed as a cover for the absorbent pad which is designed to absorb urine and semi-liquid fecal material. The absorbent pad is backed by the waterproof layer or sheet which also covers the pad edges to prevent side leakage. The waterproof layer is anchored to a self-adhesive, two-way stretch support layer which constitutes an outer cover or support layer. The support layer derives its two way stretch and self adhesive qualities from its weave of alternate twist and/or crinkle threads. The support layer includes a plurality of holes in the waist band area which provide added ventilation and drainage when the diaper is used as swim-wear.

Abstract: A stack of interfolded absorbent sheet products comprises a plurality of absorbent sheets each of which is itself folded at least twice about axes that are perpendicular to one another. The absorbent sheets have an embossed surface relief of a predetermined pattern or design. Each of the absorbent sheets within the stack comprises at least one pair of panels sandwiched between a pair of adjacent panels of another of the absorbent sheets in the stack.

Abstract: A sanitary napkin including a first embossing pattern including a first and second plurality of arcuate channels and a second embossing pattern including a third and fourth plurality of arcuate channels, the channels cooperating to define a plurality of protrusions extending upwardly from the channels.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a process for producing a water-absorbing material comprising the step of spray-coating water-absorbing polymeric particles with at least one non-reactive coating agent in a continuous process in a fluidized bed reactor in the range from 0° C. to 150° C., with the proviso that the non-reactive coating agents do not comprise an elastic film-forming polymer, the water-absorbing material obtainable by this process, the use of the water-absorbing material in hygiene articles and packaging material and hygiene articles comprising this material.

Abstract: An absorbent article having a liquid permeable top layer, a liquid impermeable leakproof layer, and a liquid retentive absorbent layer interposed between the layers, wherein the absorbent layer has an odor-controlling member containing (a) 20 to 80% by weight of specific hydrophilic fiber or hydrophilic foam and (b) an odor-controlling agent, the odor-controlling member 9 being composed of a layer made up of a mutually dispersing mixture of component (a) and component (b) or being composed of adjacent layers separately comprising component (a) and component (b).

Abstract: An adhesive undergarment to be worn when panties are not worn. Embodiments of an adhesive undergarment may have an adhesive-backed panel for placement inside a garment. An exemplary adhesive undergarment provides a level of protection to the private area of a woman from the interior seams of pants or other similar clothing when being worn without panties. This clothing accessory is in the nature of a removable, disposable, adhesive-backed panel for placing inside the crotch area of a garment that replaces a need for a panty. An adhesive undergarment may have a strengthened area or a stiffened area to minimize the drooping, flopping or wilting of the adhesive undergarment while being installed in the crotch area of a pair of pants.

Abstract: An absorbent article (101) includes at least one elastic area (143). The invention, article (101) an element (131) for checking the elongation of the elastic area (143), in conjunction with which the element (131) a first indicator marker (133) connected to the elastic area (143) and a second indicator marker (134) connected to a second piece of material (135), in conjunction with which the first indicator marker (133) and the second indicator marker (134) are capable of displacement relative to one another in the direction of elongation of the elastic area (143), whereby the change in the relative position between the first and the second indicator marker 133,134) in conjunction with the elongation of the elastic area (143) from a non-elongated position provides a measure of the elongation of the elastic area.

Abstract: An absorbent article having an upper, liquid-permeable cover layer (2), a lower, liquid-impermeable backsheet (4), an absorbent body (6) arranged between the cover layer (2) and the backsheet (4), and an air-exchange system arranged between the cover layer (2) and the backsheet (4) having at least one air-exchange (5; 43) and at least one air-exchange duct (10) having a longitudinal extension and a cross-sectional area, the air-exchange duct (10) constituting a communicating duct with regard to air communication between the air-exchange (5; 43) and the surroundings of the absorbent article. The air-exchange (5; 43) comprises a material which is compressible and resilient in all directions, essentially non-absorbent and air-permeable, and the air-exchange duct (10) has a compressible and resilient, essentially non-absorbent material, the air-exchange duct displaying air-permeability.

Abstract: Positioning apparatus is provided for positioning a catheter or similar medical or veterinary article relative to a patient's body. A tubular connector piece attaches an indwelling catheter to medical tubing or an injection port. The connector piece securely anchors the interconnected components to one another via leuer lock devices, and to a patient's skin through the use of a pre-attached adhesive-coated pad.

Abstract: A breast milk absorbent pad according to the present invention comprises first and second sections adapted to cover respective breasts and a third section extending between these first and second sections wherein at least one of upper and lower edges of the third section is concavely curved toward a transverse axis of the breast milk absorbent pad.

Abstract: Polymer particles are irradiated with radiation from a high energy source to increase the water or other fluid absorbency of the particles. Products manufactured using the activated particles include protective undergarments, bandages, kitty litter, and spill clean up materials.

Abstract: A tampon having one or more benefit indicators is provided. The tampon can include a tampon body having an insertion end, a withdrawal end, and an outer surface. The tampon can have one or more visually perceptible benefit indicators that are visible pre-use, wherein the one or more benefit indicators communicate one or more benefits of the tampon to a user. In addition, or alternatively, the tampon can include one or more visually perceptible benefit indicators that are at least partially visible post-use.

Abstract: An array of packages is provided wherein each package in the area contains a wipe. While all the packages in the array contain wipes, the wipes are packaged differently according to the desired use. Wipes may be individually wrapped or they may be provided in a package, which contains multiple unwrapped wipes. The wipes may also be individually wrapped and joined to an absorbent article such as a feminine sanitary napkin.

Abstract: A lateral flow device for testing a bodily fluid, such as urine, blood, mucous, saliva, etc., is provided. The lateral flow device is configured to be attached to an absorbent article via an attachment mechanism located on the lateral flow device or the absorbent article. The lateral flow device includes a chromatographic medium (e.g., porous membrane) that defines a detection zone that provides a signal indicative of the presence or absence of the analyte. The device may also include a control zone that provides a signal indicative of whether a sufficient amount of bodily fluid has been provided and tested. Regardless of its specific configuration, the lateral flow device is configured to be attached onto the absorbent article to provide a user or caregiver with rapid information about a health condition. For example, the device may be attached onto a diaper to provide information about the presence of enzymes or other compounds often encountered with a patient having a urinary tract infection.

Abstract: An elongate elastic member is secured to a substrate to form an elastic composite. The elastic member extends along an elastic axis between a first location on the substrate and a second location on the substrate spaced longitudinally from the first location. At least a portion of the elastic axis is generally non-parallel to the longitudinal axis of the substrate. The elastic member crosses its elastic axis at least twice as it extends along the elastic axis, with the elastic member crossing itself at least once as it extends along the elastic axis. In another embodiment, the elastic member generally forms a wave pattern which defines a width of the securement path and has at least two different periods along the securement path. In yet another embodiment, the elastic member defines a continuous series of loops wherein each loop defines a closed portion having a generally tear-drop shape.

Abstract: A disposable absorbent article having a barrier leg cuff and an elasticized outer leg cuff is disclosed. The disposable absorbent article comprises a liquid pervious topsheet, a liquid impervious backsheet, an absorbent core disposed therebetween, an elasticized outer leg cuff, and a barrier leg cuff. The elasticized outer leg cuff is disposed adjacent to a longitudinal side edge of the absorbent article. The elasticized outer leg cuff has a base and a gasket cuff supported by the base at a joint of the base to the gasket cuff. The gasket cuff is provided with elasticity and has an inner cuff extending laterally inwardly from the joint and an outer cuff extending laterally outwardly from the joint. The barrier leg cuff is disposed inboard of the gasketing cuff and forms a pocket by a combination of the inner cuff, the base and the barrier leg cuff.

Abstract: A treatment for topical use in alleviating or inhibiting joint pain, muscle pain, or musculoskeletal pain in a mammal. The treatment includes dried nettle plant applied to the skin of a mammal, or includes liquid nettle extract applied to the skin of a mammal, or includes a textile fabric (24) and a treatment composition (32) including an extract of a nettle plant. A method of alleviating or inhibiting joint pain, muscle pain, or musculoskeletal pain in a mammal includes the step of topically applying dried nettle, liquid nettle extract, or a treatment fabric to an area of the skin of the mammal proximate a pain site. A method of making a treatment fabric includes: contacting a liquid with a textile fabric (24), the liquid including an extract (22) of nettle plant; and removing at least a portion of the liquid, thereby forming the treatment fabric.

Abstract: An absorbent article comprising a central absorbent member and a lateral wicking barrier for inhibition of wicking from the central regions of the article to an outlying outer absorbent member. The wicking barrier has a vertical component for prevention of radial wicking in the plane of the article and thus promotes center filling of the article with fluid and reduces the likelihood of leaks from the sides of the article. The wicking barrier can also have a horizontal component to prevent leakage, redirect fluid flow, and improve fit and performance of the article. In one embodiment, the central absorbent member is a concentric absorbent structure having alternating rings of barrier material and absorbent material, including a spiral wound composite formed from a layer of barrier material wound with a layer of absorbent material and then sliced.

Abstract: A paper diaper and a paper diaper product package. In the paper diaper, a paper diaper product body is formed of at least a top sheet, a back sheet, and an absorbent interposed between these sheets. A plurality of design prints are applied to the paper diaper product body at portions visible from the outside starting at the waist opening end part of a front body portion to the waist opening end part of a rear body portion in the lateral direction of the paper diaper product body. Where the width of the paper diaper product body is A and the width of the face of the design prints is B, the design prints are applied to the paper diaper in the relation of A>B??A. Also, the paper diaper product package is formed by storing a plurality of paper diaper products with different designs in the same package.

Abstract: A dental absorbent pad (10) is disclosed having a moisture permeable, outer layer (11), a moisture absorbent layer (12), a stiffening plate (13), and a moisture impermeable backing (14). The moisture absorbent layer and stiffening plate are smaller in size than the overlying outer layer and backing so that a margin (17) is formed thereby which surrounds the moisture absorbent layer and stiffening plate. The margin is very flexible and therefor comfortable to a patient undergoing a dental procedure.

Abstract: Personal care products are provided. An exemplary personal care product includes a composition that is applied to the body or clothing, or an article applied against the body; a plurality of particles associated with the composition or a component of the article, the plurality of particles, at least some of the plurality of particles comprising a cyclodextrin complexing material and a first fragrance material, wherein the percent of the first fragrance material that is complexed with the cyclodextrin is greater than about 90%, so that the perceptibility of the first fragrance is minimized prior to its release; and a second fragrance material that is not complexed with the cyclodextrin and that is different from the first fragrance material, wherein the composition or article does not contain an antiperspirant active.

Abstract: A marker system for providing an indication of the presence of fecal matter, urine, sweat and/or an external fluid source. The system includes at least one reactive material configured to react upon contact with the fecal matter, urine, sweat and/or external fluid source. In this manner, the system provides some unmasked and positive indication of such contact. Also disclosed is a diaper or undergarment.

Abstract: A mechanical fastening system having an engaging component and a receiving component. The receiving component has a first bond line, a second bond line, a bond zone, and a plurality of consecutive sweep regions. The second bond line is disposed adjacent to the first bond line such that a portion of the second bond line overlaps a portion of the first bond line. The bond zone circumscribes the first bond line and the second bond line. The plurality of consecutive sweep regions are disposed within the bond zone. At least one sweep region includes a portion of both the first bond line and the second bond line, and the remaining sweep regions include at least a portion of the first or the second bond lines. The receiving component has a bond ratio greater than or equal to about 1 and less than or equal to about 20.

Abstract: A disposable nursing pad has a layered structure of a liquid-permeable sheet, an absorbent body, and a liquid-impermeable sheet. The liquid-permeable sheet and the liquid-impermeable sheet are adhered to each other. This prevents the liquid-permeable sheet from becoming detached from the absorbent body, and provides a nursing pad having an improved capacity to maintain its three-dimensional shape. A pair of pad pieces, each of which has a layered structure of a liquid permeable sheet piece, an absorber, and a liquid-impermeable sheet piece, is joined so as to form a nursing pad having an approximately conical shape. With the nursing pad, a connection portion where pad pieces are joined forms a ridge which serves as the center line of the nursing pad. The nursing pad can be folded along the ridge.

Abstract: A disposable diaper including an ink-printed substrate web exhibiting ink rub-off resistance. The substrate web is printed with an ink composition to form an ink film on the substrate web. The ink film is coated with a coating composition to form a coating film on the ink film. At least one of the ink composition and the coating composition forms a cross-linked structure within the film thereof and forms a cross-linked structure with the other composition between the ink film and the coating film. A method for making the diaper includes the steps of printing and coating the ink film.

Abstract: An incontinence pad for user includes a first moisture impenetrable exterior liner on a first side of the incontinence pad, a second moisture impenetrable exterior liner on the first side of the incontinence pad, a first flexible portion to connect the first moisture impenetrable exterior liner to the second moisture impenetrable exterior liner, a moisture punishable interior liner to form a continuous sealed edge with the first moisture impenetrable exterior liner and the second moisture impenetrable exterior liner. The incontinence pad includes a weakened area to convert the incontinence pad to a diaper. A diaper assembly for a user includes a first disposable diaper, and a second disposable diaper detachably connected to the first disposable diaper. The second disposable diaper remains connected to the first disposable diaper as the first disposable diaper is being used by the user.

Abstract: An absorbent body includes a set of first strips and a set of second strips, wherein the first and second strips are coupled to each other in order to form an absorbent layer of the body. The first and second strips are coupled to each other by the first strips being provided with cuts in which the second strips are arranged.