Involvement of Escherichia coli YbeX/CorC in ribosomal metabolism.

YbeX of Escherichia coli, a member of the CorC protein family, is encoded in the same operon with ribosome-associated proteins YbeY and YbeZ. Here, we report the involvement of YbeX in ribosomal metabolism. The ΔybeX cells accumulate distinct 16S rRNA degradation intermediates in the 30S particles and the 70S ribosomes. E. coli lacking ybeX has a lengthened lag phase upon outgrowth from the stationary phase. This growth phenotype is heterogeneous at the individual cell level and especially prominent under low extracellular magnesium levels. The ΔybeX strain is sensitive to elevated growth temperatures and to several ribosome-targeting antibiotics that have in common the ability to induce the cold shock response in E. coli. Although generally milder, the phenotypes of the ΔybeX mutant overlap with those caused by ybeY deletion. A genetic screen revealed partial compensation of the ΔybeX growth phenotype by the overexpression of YbeY. These findings indicate an interconnectedness among the ybeZYX operon genes, highlighting their roles in ribosomal assembly and/or degradation.

Recent trends in nutrient concentrations in Estonian rivers as a response to large-scale changes in land-use intensity and life-styles.

The aim of the study was assessment of changes in nutrient concentrations in Estonian rivers as a response to improved wastewater treatment and substantial reductions in the use of fertilisers and number of livestock during the past 15-20 years. A Mann-Kendall test and flow adjusted technique to assess recent trends have been used. Statistical analysis covered time series of 53 sampling sites on 40 rivers and streams in different hydro-geographical regions and varying human pressures. The results indicate a statistically significant downward trend in nitrogen concentration in 18 sampling stations during the studied period; only very few showed an upward trend. These decreases in total nitrogen (TN) relate mainly to (i) substantial reductions in the use of fertilisers, (ii) decreased area of agricultural land, (iii) decreased point source load and (iv) increased self-purification capacity of soil-water systems. The concentration of phosphorus decreased only in 13 locations, despite of efforts to improve the efficiency of wastewater treatment. Moreover, in seven locations the concentration of phosphorus was increasing. This increase in total phosphorus (TP) probably relates to the low treatment efficiency of small wastewater treatment facilities as well as to the raised ground water table due to insufficient maintenance of drainage systems that favour transport of soil P to water bodies. Accordingly, the ratio of nitrogen and phosphorus had both decreasing and increasing trends.