Abstract: Systems and methods for repairing annulus defects include scaffold (30), attachment members (40), and anchors (20). The scaffold (30) acts as a plug to substantially fill the annulus defect. The anchors (20) are secured to tissue adjacent the annulus defect. The attachment member (40) secures the scaffold (30) to the anchors (2). Thus, the systems and methods for repairing annulus defects retain the scaffold within the annulus defect.

Abstract: A system for stabilizing articles is provided. The system is particularly well-suited for stabilizing plastic grocery bags during transport in a vehicle. The system comprises a stabilizing element that, when in use, extends from a first point to a second point and passes through the handles of a bag to be stabilized. Preferably, the first and second points are fixed, either detachably or semi-permanently, on the sidewalls in the interior of a vehicle. Further, the stabilizing element preferably is flexible. In addition, the stabilizing element preferably can be disconnected from the second point and also preferably, the stabilizing element can recoil into a location at the first point so that only a portion of the stabilizing element is visible. Other preferred embodiments of the present invention, including those with intermediary fixtures or intermediary support features, as well as those with multiple stabilizing elements, also are disclosed.

Abstract: An expandable jacket that both (1) can protect a bag or knapsack worn by a user as well as the user and (2) can simulate a conventional jacket when the user is not wearing a knapsack, comprises a conventional racket and extra material affixed to the conventional jacket. Preferably, the extra material is unnecessary to the jacket's ability to be worn as a conventional jacket protecting a user from the elements, but is used to aid in allowing the expandable jacket to protect the user from the elements as well as a knapsack worn by the user. Preferably, the extra material is affixed to the rear of the jacket so that it can protect the knapsack worn by the user is worn on the user's back. When in an open mode, the extra material allows the rear of the jacket to expand to provide additional volume to the interior of the expandable jacket. When in a closed mode, the expandable jacket can be worn as a conventional jacket by the user.