Abstract: The article includes a thermoplastic layer having opposing first and second side edges and a first surface bearing male fastening elements. The thermoplastic layer is plastically deformed and has a retardance profile having an average retardance along a line from the first edge to a location 500 micrometers from the first edge and a distance from the first edge where 75% of the average retardance is observed of at least 10 micrometers. In some cases, a distance between the first and second side edges is up to 50 millimeters. In some cases, the article is a fastening tab. The method includes providing a thermoplastic film having opposing first and second side edges, with a distance between the opposing side edges of up to 50 millimeters, and stretching the thermoplastic film to form the thermoplastic layer, which is plastically deformed. The first surface of the thermoplastic film bears male fastening elements.

Abstract: A composite liquid-retentive substrate for a hygiene article comprises a base layer of first liquid-absorptive material. The base layer having a posterior end and a diametrically opposed anterior end interconnected by an intermediate tapered region. The posterior end has opposing posterior corners and the anterior end has opposing anterior corners. A posterior liquid-flow abutment comprising second absorptive material is disposed substantially around a perimeter of the posterior end. At least one anterior liquid-flow abutment comprising second absorptive material is disposed proximate one of the anterior corners of the anterior end.