Psoriatic Arthritis Patients Should Aim for "Targeted Therapy"

Oldest human DNA reveals lost branch of the human family tree

Scientists have recovered the oldest Homo sapiens DNA from remains in a cave beneath a castle in Ranis, Germany. The DNA, dated to about 45,000 years ago, belonged to six individuals, including a mother and daughter. These ancient genomes carried traces of Neanderthal ancestry, revealing interbreeding about 1,500 years earlier. This discovery aligns with broader research, suggesting a significant period of gene exchange between Homo sapiens and Neanderthals occurred between 50,500 and 43,500 years ago.The study highlights how genetic inheritance from Neanderthals, especially traits related to immune function, metabolism, and skin pigmentation, helped humans adapt to harsh Ice Age environments. Despite their ancient presence in Europe, the Ranis population eventually went extinct, leaving no trace in modern human ancestry. Their physical traits, including dark skin and eyes, reflected their recent African origins.The research also examined "archaic deserts," regions of the human genome devoid of Neanderthal DNA, likely due to infertility or diseases in hybrid offspring. Neanderthal gene contributions, however, remain crucial to understanding human evolution, particularly as modern humans migrated and adapted outside Africa.The cave where the ancient human remains were found is located beneath a castle in Ranis, Germany. Martin Schutt/picture alliance/Getty ImagesThese findings refine the timeline of Homo sapiens' migration and interbreeding, suggesting that the major wave of human migration out of Africa had concluded by 43,500 years ago. The study underscores the complex story of human evolution, where survival was not guaranteed, and some populations, like Neanderthals and the Ranis group, disappeared. This groundbreaking work offers new insights into our shared history with Neanderthals and the adaptive power of ancient gene exchanges.

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A lowly vegetable rises to stardom in newly released dietary advisory report

A humble vegetable has taken center stage, shedding its simple reputation. Beans, along with their legume relatives such as peas and lentils, are no longer just known for their fiber but have emerged as a key source of protein in the latest dietary recommendations.On Tuesday, the 2025 US Dietary Advisory Committee unveiled its report emphasizing the health and environmental benefits of legumes. Dr. Christopher Gardner, a committee member, proposed placing beans, peas, and lentils as top protein choices in MyPlate, the government’s dietary guide, while moving meat, including lean meat, to the end of the protein list.Legumes offer rich nutrition, including essential vitamins, minerals, protein, and fiber, while contributing less environmental harm compared to animal protein. Additionally, the committee recommended reducing red meat, processed foods, and refined grains while increasing the consumption of fruits, vegetables, nuts, and whole grains.Adzuki beans, or red mung beans, contain more fiber than many other varieties.This report also addressed concerns about ultraprocessed foods, linking them to obesity and chronic health conditions. However, limited research evidence meant no immediate actions were recommended. These findings will shape the upcoming 2025-2030 US Dietary Guidelines, emphasizing plant-based diets and health equity while addressing ultraprocessed food concerns in the future.