Reading in the news - Fri 9 Feb

Orchids oracle: Dr Jonathan Mitchley (Ecology) appeared on BBC Radio 2’s Midnight Mastermind, in which he asked questions about orchids.

Health and wellbeing

• Dr Francesco Tamagnini (Pharmacy) responds to a research study, finding that Viagra may reduce Alzheimer’s risk, for People Magazine, Firstpost, Ex Bulletin, Nation World News and Proactive. Republished by Yahoo! News.
• Two glasses of Champagne a day may be good for the heart and circulation, according to University of Reading research. PRLog reports.
• Medscape shares research by PhD student Martin Velichkov (Psychology) on how blueberries could have a positive effect on adults who have depression.

#PlanetPartners: working with global partners to protect the environment 

• BBC Radio 5 Live spoke to Dr Akshay Deoras (Meteorology) on the impact of climate change and extreme weather events.
• LBC News Radio spoke to Professor Richard Allan (Meteorology) about global warming exceeding the 1.5c temperature target set by the 2015 Paris agreement. 
• Professor Richard Allan (Meteorology) discusses weather forecasting for DW. Republished by Latestly.  
• Reading.co.uk reports on Ofgem, the Government energy regulator, visiting the University. Read our news story. 

Food and farming:

• Channel 4’s Food Unwrapped visited the University to discuss the difference in flavour of fresh and dried herbs. PhD student Ana Contente is interviewed. 
• Cherwell mentions research by the University after farmers reported higher yields where organic farming methods are used.

Other Coverage:

• Reading Borough Council mentions how the University offers a wide range of varying apprenticeship opportunities.

Alumni:

• INREV reports that Fund Manager of EUROCORE, Jeffrey King, holds a diploma from the University.