The diffusible signaling factor family in microbial signaling: a current perspective.

This review discusses the chemical properties, synthesis and detection, and biological functions of a molecular group of cis-2-unsaturated fatty acids, containing fatty acid carbon chains of various lengths and cis double-bond configurations, known as the diffusible signaling factor family (DSFF). Early postulation of the conserved nature of the DSFF among Gram-negative bacteria have now been challenged by the latest evidences that unraveled their presence in a various other distinct microorganisms. Over the last decade, a significant depth and breadth of understanding has been made on the multifaceted functions of DSFFs among bacteria, and their interactions with evolutionarily divergent fungi, plants insects and small animals.

Plastic bronchitis in an adult.

Plastic bronchitis is rare in adult pulmonology and has a wide range of aetiology. Cast analysis is key in narrowing down the differential diagnosis of plastic bronchitis. If suspected of having lymphocytic PB, complete imaging to evaluate thoracic lymphatics is important to find out the potential causes for PB.

Arthrogryposis multiplex congenita causing hypercapnic respiratory failure and airway obstruction in an adult patient.

This case highlights arthrogryposis multiplex congenita (AMC) as a rare cause of hypercapnoeic respiratory failure and airway obstruction in adults and emphasizes the usage of leak-port in tracheostomy-NIV (non-invasive-ventilation) specially in resource poor setting when the tracheostomy-NIV mask is unavailable.

Unilateral pulmonary agenesis with ipsilateral facial congenital anomalies in an adult with obstructive airway disease.

Pulmonary agenesis is a rare congenital anomaly which can be isolated or co-exist with other developmental defects. Boyden et al has described three degrees of mal development of lung which include agenesis, hypoplasia and aplasia. Almost all the reported cases are in paediatric age group patients while, adults with pulmonary developmental abnormalities are sparsely documented in the literature.

Exploring bilateral pneumothorax leading to a rare diagnosis in a young lady.

Bilateral pneumothorax is a rare occurrence and vigilant clinical examination is mandatory to suspect that during the presentation. This case illustrates a young lady presented with bilateral pneumothorax, new identification of lung cysts and chylous pleural effusion leading to diagnosis of lymphangioleiomyomatosis.