LuxR-Type Regulator AclR1 of Regulates Cyclic di-GMP and Numerous Phenotypes in Free-Living and Symbiotic States.

LuxR-type regulators play important roles in transcriptional regulation in bacteria and control various biological processes. A genome sequence analysis showed the existence of seven LuxR-type regulators in ORS571, an important nitrogen-fixing bacterium in both its free-living state and in symbiosis with its host, . However, the functional mechanisms of these regulators remain unclear.

Thermochemical oxidation of methane induced by high-valence metal oxides in a sedimentary basin.

Thermochemical oxidation of methane (TOM) by high-valence metal oxides in geological systems and its potential role as a methane sink remain poorly understood. Here we present evidence of TOM induced by high-valence metal oxides in the Junggar Basin, located in northwestern China. During diagenesis, methane from deeper source strata is abiotically oxidized by high-valence Mn(Fe) oxides at 90 to 135 °C, releasing C-depleted CO, soluble Mn and Fe.