This continuing series gathers and presents original research results on the leading edge of medicine and biology. Each article has been carefully selected in an attempt to present substantial topical data across a broad spectrum. Topics discussed in this compilation include bone marrow stromal cell transplantation in spinal cord injury; DNA tumor viruses; contraception methods and implications; paediatric palliative care; health care costs from diabetes in Latin America and vitamin K as a ligand of steroid and xenobiotic receptors.