Exploring the dynamics of compliance with community penalties

In this paper, we examine how compliance with community penalties has been theorized hitherto and seek to develop a new dynamic model of compliance with community penalties. This new model is developed by exploring some of the interfaces between existing criminological and socio-legal work on compliance. The first part of the paper examines the possible definitions and dimensions of compliance with community supervision. Secondly, we examine existing work on explanations of compliance with community penalties, supplementing this by drawing on recent socio-legal scholarship on private individuals’ compliance with tax regimes. In the third part of the paper, we propose a dynamic model of compliance, based on the integration of these two related analyses. Finally, we consider some of the implications of our model for policy and practice concerning community penalties, suggesting the need to move beyond approaches which, we argue, suffer from compliance myopia; that is, a short-sighted and narrowly focused view of the issues

A New and Effective Tension-Band Braided Polyester Suture Technique for Transverse Patellar Fracture Fixation

Objectives: Concerning the tension-band principle of internal fixation, this study aims to establish whether any difference in interfragmentary gap exists after bone-reducing forceps are released, when a recommended suture-knot technique and a new technique are tested in vitro on a purpose built machine that features a model of a transverse fracture of the patella. In addition, a standard tension-band wiring technique has also been tested as one form of control. Background: Satisfactory compression at a fracture site reduces the risk of failure of fixation, loss of reduction (interfragmentary gap >2 mm) and subsequent risks of malunion, delayed union, and ultimately non-union from excessive movement. Stainless-steel wire can provide a stable rigid construct but is associated with complications. Tension-band fixation employing a braided polyester non-absorbable suture provides a less rigid construct. However, satisfactory clinical results and fewer complications are reported. The method by which a suture is tied has an effect on initial compression provided the fracture is reduced. However, it also has an effect on the degree of fracture gap once it is subject to biomechanical distraction. Methods: By measuring the output of a strain gauge Wheatstone bridge of a purpose built rig that had been calibrated against fracture gap and compression force, the various tension-band fixation techniques as discussed above were evaluated. Results: The tension-band suture technique examined in this work (the modified Wagoner's Hitch) has been evaluated. It has quantitatively shown less fracture gap than other recognised tension-band suture and wire techniques. The results exhibit statistical significance (p < 0.001). Conclusions: This evaluation study has produced quantitative and comparable data of fracture gap as observed with the model of a transverse patella fracture, for both new and established surgical techniques. The contribution this study has made to the knowledge of the subject is that a testing device similar to the one in this study may be useful in the future for conducting preliminary studies of new or established tension-band techniques. The proposed tension-band suture method tested in this dissertation provided statistically significant quantitative data, which may after further work, support its use as an alternative method in the clinical setting

Elbow hemiarthroplasty using a "triceps-on" approach for the management of acute distal humeral fractures

Background: Total elbow arthroplasty is an established option for the primary treatment of acute distal humeral fractures, but there are sparse data regarding elbow hemiarthroplasty (EHA) as an alternative. We present the outcome of EHA performed with a modular anatomic prosthesis and a "triceps-on" surgical technique. Methods: Eighteen consecutive patients underwent EHA for an acute fracture. Two patients died, leaving a study group of 16 patients with minimum 2-year follow-up. Clinical evaluation included range of motion; Mayo Elbow Performance Score; Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand score; and Oxford Elbow Score. Radiographic assessment looked at alignment, evidence of loosening, ulnar and radial head wear, heterotopic ossification, and whether healing of the condyles had occurred. Results: Mean follow-up was 35 months (24-79 months). The mean scores were as follows: Mayo Elbow Performance Score, 89.6; shortened Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand score, 11.2; and Oxford Elbow Score, 43.7. The mean flexion and pronation-supination arcs were 116° and 172° respectively. Radial head wear was absent in 13 patients and mild in 3. Ulnar wear was absent in 6 patients, mild in 8, and moderate in 2. Wear was not associated with greater pain or inferior functional scores. There was no sign of aseptic loosening, and complete condylar bone union occurred in 15 elbows. There was 1 complication, a transient ulnar nerve neurapraxia that resolved without intervention. Conclusion: EHA with a modular anatomic implant using a triceps-on approach is a reliable technique for the management of acute unreconstructible distal humeral fractures in older patients.</p