Publications by authors named "Roberto G Lopez"

Mean daily temperature (MDT) and daily light integral (DLI) can interact to influence growth and development of plants. Our objectives were to determine 1) the extent DLI and MDT influence growth and development of purple basil 'Dark Opal' (Ocimum basilicum), sage 'Extrakta' (Salvia officinalis), spearmint 'Spanish' (Mentha spicata), and sweet basil 'Nufar' (Ocimum basilicum) and 2) the influence on purple basil color. Young plants were transplanted into hydroponic systems in five greenhouse compartments with MDT set points of 23, 26, 29, 32, or 35°C and DLIs from 5 to 19 mol·m‒2·d‒1, respectively.

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To produce consistent and high-quality specialty cut flowers throughout the year, growers in temperate climates must utilize controlled environment greenhouses. Research-based information on photoperiod management and supplemental lighting for specialty cut flowers is limiting. Therefore, our objectives were (1) to determine the effect of photoperiod during the young-plant and finishing stages on floral initiation and morphology of witchgrass 'Frosted Explosion' () and marigold 'Xochi' () and (2) to quantify the effect of daily light integral (DLI) on floral initiation and morphology of witchgrass during the finishing stage.

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Radiation intensity and carbon dioxide (CO2) concentration can be precisely controlled to manipulate plant yield and quality. Due to increased plant densities during seedling production, fewer inputs per plant are required, creating the potential to increase production efficiency. Therefore, the objectives of this research were to: 1) quantify the extent radiation intensity and CO2 concentration under sole-source lighting influence morphology and yield of sweet basil (Ocimum basilicum) seedlings, and 2) determine if differences in morphology, yield, and volatile organic compound (VOC) concentration persist after transplant in a common environment.

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In controlled environments, crop models that incorporate environmental factors can be developed to optimize growth and development as well as conduct cost and/or resource use benefit analyses. The overall objective of this study was to model growth and development of dill 'Bouquet' (Anethum graveolens), parsley 'Giant of Italy' (Petroselinum crispum), and watercress (Nasturtium officinale) in response to photosynthetic daily light integral (DLI) and mean daily temperature (MDT). Plants were grown hydroponically in five greenhouse compartments with MDTs ranging from 9.

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Altering the radiation intensity in controlled environments can influence volatile organic compound (VOC) biosynthetic pathways, including those of terpenoids and phenylpropanoids. In turn, the concentrations of these compounds can have a profound effect on flavor and sensory attributes. Because sweet basil () is a popular culinary herb, our objectives were to (1) determine the extent radiation intensity and carbon dioxide (CO) concentration influence seedling terpenoid and phenylpropanoid concentrations; (2) determine if differences in phenylpropanoid and terpenoid concentrations influence consumer preference; and (3) characterize consumer preferences to better inform production and marketing strategies.

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Athletes usually complain of an ongoing or chronic pain over the Achilles tendon, but recently even non-athletes are experiencing the same kind of pain which affects their daily activities. Achilles tendinosis refers to a degenerative process of the tendon without histologic or clinical signs of intratendinous inflammation. Treatment is based on whether to stimulate or prevent neovascularization.

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