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The purpose of this paper is to show how "realist synthesis" methodology (Pawson, 2002) was adapted to review a large sample of community based projects addressing alcohol and drug use problems. Our study drew on a highly varied sample of 127 projects receiving funding from a national non-government organisation in Australia between 2002 and 2008. Open and pattern coding led to the identification of 10 barrier and nine enabler mechanisms influencing project implementation across the sample. Eight case studies (four demonstrating successful implementation; four demonstrating less than successful implementation) were used for depth exploration of these mechanisms. High level theories were developed, from these findings, on implementation effectiveness in projects addressing alcohol and other drug use problems. (Contains 2 tables.)

Chronic disease identification and management is a significant issue in Australia, with general practice being the primary contact point for those at risk of, or living with, chronic disease. However, there is a well-described gap between guideline recommendations for chronic disease management and translation in the general practice setting. In 2018, a group of researchers, clinicians and software developers collaborated to develop a tool to support the identification and management of chronic disease in general practice, with the aim to create a platform that met the needs of general practice. The co-design process drew together core principles and expectations for the establishment of a technological platform, called Future Health Today (FHT), which would sit alongside the electronic medical record (EMR) management system within general practice. FHT used algorithms applied to EMR data to identify patients with, or at risk of, chronic disease and requiring review. Using chronic kidney disease as a clinical focus, the FHT prototype was piloted in a large, metropolitan general practice, and a large regional general practice. Based on user feedback, the prototype was further developed and improved. This paper provides a report on the key features and functionalities that participants identified and implemented in practice. Future Health Today is a new platform, co-designed by general practice for general practice, which aims to streamline the identification and management of chronic disease to improve health outcomes. This paper describes the development of the technology platform and how it was optimised through an implementation study in general practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Discusses the synergistic interrelationships among the changes in our views of learning/teaching, the integration of technology, and the restructuring in our educational systems. Topics addressed include educational reform, constructivism, current use of technology, the effectiveness of technology, global telecommunications and collaboration, and trends in educational restructuring. (35 references) (LRW)

Describes a variety of activities for improving students' social studies vocabulary. Groups the activities under the principles of LURE: (1) Linking the new word to a known word or words; (2) Using the new word in speaking and writing; (3) Revisiting new words immediately and often; and (4) Enjoying the fun and power of knowing new words. (SG)

Examines current Illinois statewide assessment of social studies education. Argues conceptual knowledge assessment in the social studies should use essay tests. Includes guidelines and activities for teaching students to write persuasively. Explains various strategies to teach reading, writing, and thinking skills, including the "RAFT" paper (role of writer, audience, format, topic); opinion-proof notes; the problem-solution paper; and learning logs. (NL)

The article informs about Barbara Hunter's journey as an equine surgeon, her training background, and her choice of specialization. Topic include Despite bumps along the way, including transitioning from private practice to academia, she found her passion in surgery, particularly orthopedics, staying updated through sources like the Veterinary Surgery journal and VetPD panel discussions.