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Bournemouth University


New study reveals how birth method and antibiotics may shape babies' gut bacteria

A systematic review found that babies born by caesarean section or exposed to antibiotics around the time of birth tend to have differences in their gut bacteria composition, with less diversity and beneficial bacterial groups less abundant. Exclusively breastfed infants appear to show a partial restoration of microbial balance.

SourceBournemouth University·JournalBMJ Paediatrics Open·TypeSystematic review·DateJul 9, 2026

Emoji’s have feelings too, new study reveals

A new study by Bournemouth University found that the brain reacts to emojis in a way similar to seeing real human faces, with neural responses occurring within 145-160 milliseconds. This suggests that emojis can be processed by the brain as meaningful emotional signals during online interaction.

SourceBournemouth University·JournalPsychophysiology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateApr 20, 2026

Ancient genetics and modern pollutants could provide a clue to endometriosis risk

A new study suggests that genetic differences passed down from ancient human ancestors and exposure to common chemicals could explain why some women are more likely to develop endometriosis. Researchers identified six genetic variants linked to the condition, which also occur in genes sensitive to modern pollutants.

SourceBournemouth University·JournalEuropean Journal of Human Genetics·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 4, 2025

Changing the sweet taste of someone’s diet has no impact on their sweet tooth or health, study suggests

A new trial found that increasing or decreasing sugar intake in a person's diet has no effect on their preference for sweet foods. Researchers suggest that public health advice may need to focus on reducing sugar and energy-dense foods, rather than eliminating all sweet options.

SourceBournemouth University·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateDec 1, 2025

The escape room challenge: How one person’s narcissism can undermine a whole team

A new study found that individuals with narcissistic rivalry tendencies are more likely to damage team dynamics, leading to lower cohesion and poorer performance. In contrast, narcissistic admiration didn't seem to impact performance, but those individuals were increasingly viewed as less hardworking and arrogant by their teammates.

SourceBournemouth University·JournalBehavioral Science·TypeObservational study·DateNov 5, 2025

“What’s with the long face?”: a new study looks at horses and how we can recognize their pain

A new study at Bournemouth University found that people with horse experience were more accurate at recognizing pain in horse faces, while those with social anxiety were better at detecting pain in human faces. The findings aim to improve animal welfare by helping owners recognize changes indicating pain in horses.

SourceBournemouth University·JournalAnthrozoös·TypeObservational study·DateOct 2, 2025

New study confirms red squirrels are resilient to climate change in Europe but underlines need to conserve their habitat

A new study by Bournemouth University confirms that red squirrel populations across Europe are resilient to the effects of climate change, but highlights the need for conservation efforts to protect their habitat. The study found that temperature changes and low rainfall do not directly affect the survivability of red squirrels.

SourceBournemouth University·JournalBiology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 1, 2025

Major discovery of Ice Age bones in a Norwegian cave opens a window into the past

Scientists have uncovered the remains of a vast animal community that lived in the European Arctic 75,000 years ago. The bones represent the oldest example of an animal community in the region during this warmer period of the ice age, providing valuable insights into how wildlife responded to dramatic climate shifts.

SourceBournemouth University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeImaging analysis·DateAug 4, 2025

Study reveals spinning could reduce NHS waiting lists for physiotherapy treatments

A new study by Bournemouth University reveals that spinning can improve recovery outcomes and reduce clinical time needed for physiotherapy treatment compared to standard care. The cycling and education classes prove more cost-effective, contributing to reducing NHS waiting times for hip osteoarthritis patients.

SourceBournemouth University·JournalThe Lancet Rheumatology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJul 31, 2025

Study reveals different phases of evolution during ice age

A recent study has discovered that cold-adapted species began evolving 2.6 million years ago, with many modern species emerging around 700,000 years ago. The research provides insights into the evolution of Arctic ecosystems and highlights the importance of understanding past adaptations to inform conservation efforts.

SourceBournemouth University·JournalTrends in Ecology & Evolution·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 23, 2025

The Roman massacre that never happened according to a new study of an iconic archaeological site

A new study by Bournemouth University reveals that the 'war-cemetery' at Maiden Castle did not die in a single event, but rather experienced lethal violence spanning multiple generations. The findings question the traditional narrative of Roman conquest and highlight the need for reevaluation of other archaeological cemeteries.

SourceBournemouth University·JournalOxford Journal of Archaeology·TypeImaging analysis·DateMay 23, 2025

Ticking boxes? Football industry continues to marginalise ethnically diverse coaches

A new study found that the use of the BAME acronym in the football industry can cause discomfort and reinforce feelings of marginalization. Researchers recommend a more inclusive approach, allowing individuals to describe their heritage and background rather than relying on tick boxes for ethnicity classification.

SourceBournemouth University·JournalInternational Review for the Sociology of Sport·TypeSurvey·DateNov 14, 2022

New advice for doctors on how to identify and respond to reproductive coercion

A new paper provides guidance for healthcare workers on recognizing signs of reproductive coercion, which can involve psychological pressure, emotional blackmail, and physical violence. Doctors are advised to ask specific questions and establish a professional relationship with patients to gather more information and provide support.

SourceBournemouth University·JournalBMJ·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateSep 23, 2022