The study investigates the genomic signatures of the heterotrophic symbiosis in Osedax worms by assembling the genome of O. frankpressi and comparing it with genomes of two Vestimentifera species from hydrothermal vents. The findings reveal that O. frankpressi has a smaller genome and gene repertoire, shaped predominantly through gene loss, unlike Vestimentifera which evolved through ancestral gene gains followed by species-specific rates of gene loss. The research also explores the genetic and functional contribution of endosymbionts to the nutritional symbioses of Siboglinid worms, showing that O. frankpressi's endosymbionts have a genome enriched in metabolic genes, unlike the chemosynthetic endosymbionts of Vestimentifera. Additionally, the study examines metabolic adaptations for bone digestion, lineage-specific expansions of matrix metalloproteinases, divergence in innate immunity repertoire, a conserved developmental toolkit, and species-specific repertoires of DNA damage repair mechanisms in Siboglinidae.

The study investigates the convergent evolution of nutritional symbiosis in ants, focusing on the genomes of symbionts from various ant species. It reveals that ant lineages have independently acquired related bacteria, leading to advanced genome reduction. The research highlights the conservation of metabolic functions, particularly the shikimate pathway for tyrosine production, across different ant symbionts. The study also explores the evolutionary origins and losses of symbiosis in Formica and Cardiocondyla species, suggesting that symbiotic relationships can evolve to solve common problems but may break down if no longer required. The findings provide insights into the evolutionary forces influencing the persistence and breakdown of long-term endosymbiotic mutualisms.

In response to a homophobic attack and subsequent controversial comments by DUP MP Iris Robinson, Northern Irish composer Conor Mitchell created the opera 'Abomination' to address the rise in hate speech in Northern Ireland. The opera, performed by the Belfast Ensemble, sets homophobic statements by DUP politicians to music, aiming to raise awareness and challenge such rhetoric.

Claire Allan, previously known for her romcoms, transitioned to crime writing after struggling to find financial success in the Irish market. With the encouragement of Random House, she ventured into the crime genre, leading to the successful publication of her psychological thriller 'Her Name Was Rose' by HarperCollins. Allan's journey involved extensive research and a shift in writing style, ultimately revitalizing her career. Despite the challenges, including mental health impacts, her work has been well-received, prompting her to continue writing both crime and women's fiction under a new pseudonym.

Northern Irish actor Jayne Wisener, known for her roles in Tim Burton's Sweeney Todd and Channel 4's The Inbetweeners, discusses her intriguing German ancestry and career highlights. Despite her name's Germanic origins, her family history traces back to Coleraine in Northern Ireland.

Composer Hannah Peel discusses her experience with discrimination in the music industry and her Emmy nomination for scoring the Game of Thrones documentary. Despite not being a fan initially, Peel became attached to the series after binge-watching it and was determined to do justice to the score. She was surprised by the Emmy nomination, considering her previous highest industry award nomination was the Northern Ireland Music Prize. Peel also criticizes the classical dance world for its gender bias and expresses determination to continue releasing music independently.

Composer Hannah Peel discusses her experiences with discrimination in the music industry and her recent Emmy nomination for scoring the Game of Thrones documentary, 'The Last Watch.' Peel reflects on the emotional journey of scoring the documentary, her unexpected attachment to the series, and the impact of the production on Northern Ireland's film industry. Despite facing industry challenges, Peel remains determined to continue her work, highlighting the importance of female representation and the support of organizations like the Alliance of Women Film Composers and BBC Radio 3's Unclassified programme.

Composer Hannah Peel discusses her experience scoring the Game of Thrones documentary 'The Last Watch,' her Emmy nomination, and the discrimination she has faced in the music industry. Despite not being a fan initially, Peel became deeply attached to the project and was moved by the production's scale and the cast's journey. She highlights the challenges and discrimination faced by female composers but remains optimistic about industry changes, citing organizations like the Alliance of Women Film Composers and BBC Radio 3's Unclassified programme. Peel's work with notable artists like Paul Weller and her resilience in the face of industry challenges are also emphasized.

Derry musicians Ryan Vail and Eoin O'Callaghan discuss their collaborative album 'Borders,' which explores themes of geography, identity, and Brexit. The album, a response to political divisions, combines music and visual elements to reflect the border between Ireland and Northern Ireland. The duo plans to tour globally, including performances in Mexico and Berlin, to connect with other regions experiencing conflict. The project aims to foster understanding and community through art, despite the challenges posed by political figures like Arlene Foster and Donald Trump.

Northern Irish crime writer Stuart Neville is taking an unconventional approach to his midlife crisis by transitioning from writing to playing music, including a performance at Glastonbury.