Reminders and Notes sync issues.

Hi,

Can anyone help me understand how synchronization works between desktop Macs running OS X and mobile devices (iPhones and iPads) running iOS ? I have tried many different alternatives but can't seem to control when Reminders and Notes sync with my mobile devices.

I almost always enter my notes and reminders using my desktop computers but read them while aways from home or the office on my mobile devices. I frequently find that my mobile devices don't have the latest version of my notes but can't seem to make them to sync when I want. Is there a simple way to force synchronization every time one of these two apps is launched on a mobile device ? If not, what is my next best option ?

Thank you.