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 include the properties, biosynthesis and health implications of sucrose; colonisation of oral and dental tissues by uncommon bacteria; use of chlorhexidine as an adjunct therapy in oral candidal infection; biofilms and otitis media; risk factors for systemic conditions in periodontal disease; fentanyl use from analgesia to hyperalgesia; post laryngectomy voice rehabilitation and gastroesophageal reflux; acute otitis media in developing countries; long-term follow-up care of patients treated for laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR); non-acid gastroesophageal reflux and respiratory disorders in children; and prevalence of diabetic retinopathy in the area of donostialdea diagnosed by telemedicine.