The Stem Cell Site
 This site is part of the US government’s official web portal, hosted by the National Institutes of Health, and can be reached at http://stemcells.nih.gov/info/basics.
The Stem Cell Site will engage and inform visitors, with its crisp format and easy to follow index and navigation system. Topics include the unique properties of all stem cells, embryonic stem cells, adult stem cells, similarities and differences between embryonic and adult stem cells and potential uses of human stem cells. The site is comprehensive and helpful, including directions to other sources of information for the visitor. There is a glossary for most of the difficult words, but following the text may be difficult for those not already well-versed in biology. The information is very extensive and comprehensive, with all relevant aspects addressed. Diagrams (“cartoons”) are colourful and attractive, but require a good understanding of the terminology to interpret them comfortably (keep that glossary handy!). Most motivated, patient and diligent lay people will be able to follow the content and understand the concepts, but many will find it a challenge. Healthcare professionals should have a much easier time, since they already have the scientific foundation for this topic.
The Frequently Asked Questions link on the Home Page provides information in language more suitable for the general audience. On the Home Page, the VII. Where can I get more information? link provides access to the University of Wisconsin site, which is written in language more comfortable for the uninitiated:
www.news.wisc.edu/packages/stemcells/
Reviewed by Nancy Holland, Vice President, Clinical Programs, NMSS, USA.
A Health Handbook for Women with Disabilities
 by Jane Maxwell, Julia Watts Belser and Darlena David
Copyright©2007 by Hesperian
Foundation, February 2007, ISBN:
978-0-942364-50-7 paperback.
This book is written for the millions of women with disabilities around the world, including those with vision and hearing problems, difficulties walking, difficulties with speech, and those with learning impairments.
The book aims to help women better care for themselves and it will also assist family, friends, community health workers and caregivers who support women with disabilities.
There are 15 chapters, including mental health, taking care of your body, sexuality, family planning, caring for your baby, growing older with a disability, and support for caregivers.
The book offers very clear explanations related to the different themes and potential situations. It is written in a very straightforward way and this, together with the many illustrations, makes it very easy to read and understand.
In my opinion the book is very thorough and it considers all of the important aspects and information for women dealing with these conditions. I would highly recommend this book as an excellent introduction to anyone affected by or interested in these matters.
I enjoyed this book very much and I am sure that you will also find reading it both pleasurable and useful. www.hesperian.org
Reviewed by Maria Marta Castro, PwMSIC member for Argentina.
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