Trabajos de Titulación - Medicina Veterinaria
URI permanente para esta colecciónhttps://dspace.ucacue.edu.ec/handle/ucacue/53
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Item type: Ítem , Access status: Acceso Abierto , Determinación de rangos hematológicos de perros mestizos en altitud: caso parroquia el Batán Cuenca – Ecuador(Universidad Católica de Cuenca., 2026) Cabrera Quito, José FranciscoDetermining hematological reference intervals is an essential tool for interpreting complete blood count (CBC) results in veterinary medicine. Factors such as altitude, age, sex, genetic diversity, and analytical methodology can affect blood parameters; therefore, establishing population-specific reference values is necessary. This study aimed to determine hematological reference intervals in mixed-breed dogs aged two to five years residing in Cuenca, Ecuador, and to compare them with those reported in the international literature. A descriptive observational study was conducted in 106 healthy dogs. Red blood cell parameters showed values consistent with international reference intervals: RBC counts of 6.015–6.339 × 10⁶/µL, HCT values of 42.4–44.8%, and HGB concentrations of 17.1–18.8 g/dL, with the latter approaching the upper reference limit. MCV remained within the reference range (69.289–70.559 fL), whereas MCH was higher than values reported in the literature (29.768–31.324 pg), which may be related to adaptation to altitude. MCHC (399–434 g/L) could be associated with preanalytical or analytical factors. Regarding white blood cell parameters, total leukocyte counts ranged from 9.938 to 11.553 × 10³/µL, with a predominance of granulocytes (6.834–8.226 × 10³/µL) and lymphocyte counts within the reference range (1.893–2.290 × 10³/µL). Platelet counts ranged from 241.240 to 284.022 × 10³/µL, with an MPV of 10.582–11.228 fL and a PCT of 0.245–0.279%. The results confirm hematological homeostasis and support the establishment of reference intervals for mixed-breed dogs living at high altitude. Furthermore, these findings enable the identification of environment-associated variations, improve diagnostic accuracy, and help avoid interpretations based on foreign populations whose genetic characteristics and analytical methodologies may differ from those observed in Cuenca. Keywords Dymind DH36 Vet; Complete blood count; Sex; CaninesItem type: Ítem , Access status: Acceso Abierto , Adaptación del cuestionario de empatía de Toronto (TEQ) como instrumento de evaluación psicométrica enfocado en animales de compañía(Universidad Católica de Cuenca., 2026) Ortega Falconí , María EmiliaIs empathy essential to veterinary practice? Evidence suggests that empathy enhances the understanding of companion animals´ emotional states and strengthens the human-animal bond, promoting more ethical animal care and contributing to the development of a more compassionate society. This study aimed to evaluate the Toronto Empathy Questionnaire (TEQ) as a psychometric instrument for assessing empathy toward companion animals. The TEQ was adapted for assessing empathy toward companion animals and administered, together with the original questionnaire to 200 university students aged 18-25 years from different academic disciplines, who participated anonymously and voluntarily. Descriptive and comparative analyses were performed according to academic discipline and gender and differences were assessed using Student´s t-test (p < 0,05). The adapted questionnaire yielded a higher proportion of empathetic participants (54%) tan the original version (49%). Veterinary Medicine students exhibited the highest proportion of empathetic individuals (61%) compared with students from the other academic disciplines, while female participants demonstrated higher empathy levels (59%) than male participants (46%). Although statistically significant differences were observed among academic disciplines (p < 0,05) no significant differences were found between the original and adapted questionnaires. These findings suggest that the study population exhibits comparable levels of empathy toward companion animals and humans. Moreover, the adapted TEQ represents a promising instrument that has the potencial to serve as a valuable psychometric tool for investigating the human-animal bond, guiding strategies to enhance animal welfare, and helping prevent profesional burnout among future veterinarians. Keywords Gender, burnout, veterinary medicine, human-animal bond, empathyItem type: Ítem , Access status: Embargo , EMBARGADO POR MOTIVOS DE INVESTIGACIÓN(Universidad Católica de Cuenca., 2026) Matute Velez, Jairo Esteban...Item type: Ítem , Access status: Acceso Abierto , Evaluación de la eficacia antiparasitaria de semillas de Carica Papaya en caninos positivos a Toxacara Canis(Universidad Católica de Cuenca., 2026) Quezada Barzola, Johnny AlexanderToxocara canis gastrointestinal infection is one of the most common parasitic diseases affecting dogs and represents an important zoonotic concern. This study compared the antiparasitic efficacy of conventional praziquantel plus pyrantel treatment with Carica papaya seeds in naturally infected dogs. An experimental study was conducted using twenty dogs older than six months, randomly assigned to two groups of ten animals each. Coprological diagnosis and parasite burden were assessed using the Sheather flotation technique on days 0 and 16. Data were analyzed using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test for within-group comparisons and the Mann-Whitney U test for between-group comparisons, considering p < 0.05. Both treatments eliminated all cases classified as having high parasite burden by the end of the study. Praziquantel plus pyrantel achieved a greater reduction in parasite burden, showing differences between baseline and day 16 (p = 0.013) and when compared with the C. papaya group at the end of treatment (p = 0.044). Although C. seeds reduced parasite burden and eliminated severe infections, their therapeutic effect was lower than that of conventional treatment. These findings support the use of C. papaya seeds as a complementary option within integrated parasite control programs for dogs. Keywords Natural antiparasitic; Carica papaya; toxocariasis; canines; Toxocara canis; helminthsItem type: Ítem , Access status: Embargo , EMBARGADO POR MOTIVOS DE INVESTIGACIÓN(Universidad Católica de Cuenca., 2026) Quizhpi Sangurima, Veronica Paola...Item type: Ítem , Access status: Embargo , EMBARGADO POR MOTIVOS DE INVESTIGACIÓN(Universidad Católica de Cuenca., 2026) Escandón Carpio, Juan Francisco...Item type: Ítem , Access status: Embargo , PROYECTO DE TITULACION EMBARGADO CON FINES DE PUBLICACION(Universidad Católica de Cuenca., 2026) Conde Ochoa, Gabriel...Item type: Ítem , Access status: Embargo , EMBARGADO POR MOTIVOS DE INVESTIGACIÓN(Universidad Católica de Cuenca., 2026) Duy Tenezaca, Tupac Segundo; Lliguilema López, Elizabeth TatianaItem type: Ítem , Access status: Acceso Abierto , Valoración de respuesta inflamatoria subclínica en caballos mediante monitoreo de la proteína amiloide A sérica post-ejercicio(Universidad Católica de Cuenca., 2026) Toapanta Tanguila , Victor EliecerThe early detection of subclinical inflammatory responses in sport horses is a useful tool for preventing exercise-associated musculoskeletal injuries, overcoming the limitations of conventional clinical examination during moderate exercise. The primary objective of this article was to examine serum amyloid A (SAA) levels as a biomarker of subclinical inflammation induced by physical exercise in horses from the Archidona region. Methodologically, a quasi-experimental design was used with a sample of three male mixed-breed horses that underwent a 9-km exercise protocol on uneven terrain. SAA was quantified by nephelometry and cortisol by electrochemiluminescence at baseline (T₀) and post-exercise (24 h, T₁), and these were correlated with heart rate (HR), respiratory rate, and the comfort scale (ECAS). One hundred percent of the horses evaluated scored 0 on the pain scale, confirming the absence of post-exercise abnormalities or clinical signs of pain. At the physiological and molecular levels, the results demonstrated a moderate, specifically positive correlation with moderate statistical significance between heart rate and SAA (R = 0.31), with SAA showing sensitivity in detecting elevated individual inflammatory responses (up to 18.6 mg/L). Cortisol, meanwhile, showed a significant post-exercise reduction (p=0.046) compared to baseline, indicating adequate activation of the homeostatic recovery phase coupled with the subjects’ cardiorespiratory and ethological stability. It is concluded that variations in SAA are not associated with a significant subclinical inflammatory response; however, they are related to other biomarkers of physical activity in horses. Keywords Cortisol; equine exercise; serum amyloid A; subclinical inflammation; biomarkers.Item type: Ítem , Access status: Acceso Abierto , Maduración in-vitro de ovocitos bovinos en cultivo de células oviductales(Universidad Católica de Cuenca., 2026) Mora Rojas , Kelly YajairaIn vitro maturation (IVM) of bovine oocytes in culture systems represents a promising strategy for improving meiotic competence and embryonic development in assisted reproduction. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of culturing bovine cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) with a monolayer of bovine oviduct epithelial cells cultured in TCM-19 medium. The COCs were classified according to morphological criteria established by the IETS into grades 1 to 4 and assigned to two experimental groups: a control group and a group with oviduct epithelial cells. The degree of cumulus expansion was evaluated on a scale of 0–4, together with the nuclear maturation rate (MII). The data were analyzed using a chi-square test (p > 0.005). The results showed that the control group exhibited a greater degree of cumulus expansion compared to the oviductal cell group, with a statistically significant difference (χ² = 8.00; df = 3; p-value = 0.046). In contrast, no significant difference (p < 0.005) was observed in the nuclear maturation rate between the two treatments, indicating a functional dissociation between cumulus expansion and the resumption of meiosis in the oocyte. The results of this study underscore that the supportive capacity of a monolayer of oviduct epithelial cells for oocytes depends on the functional status and prior hormonal conditioning of the oviductal cells, and that the physical presence of the monolayer alone is not sufficient to ensure complete cumulus expansion during in vitro oocyte maturation. Keywords. Oocytes, epithelial cells, maturation, in vitro, oviduct.Item type: Ítem , Access status: Acceso Abierto , Comparación de la efectividad del uso de yema de huevo de ganso y gallina en la criopreservacion de semen ovino(Universidad Católica de Cuenca., 2026) Andrade Paredes, Andrés PatricioAbstract This study compared the effectiveness of goose and chicken egg yolk in the cryopreservation of ovine semen. Cryopreservation is a crucial process in reproductive biotechnologies; however, itmay cause damage to the sperm membrane due to thermal, oxidative, and osmotic stress. The research was based on the evaluation of ram semen exposed to two Triladyl-based extenders: chicken egg yolk (control group) and goose egg yolk (experimental group), both included at a concentration of 20% in the extender solution. Semen samples were cryopreserved and subsequently assessed for viability (eosin-nigrosin staining), membrane integrity (HOST), total motility, progressive motility, and sperm kinematic parameters using a Computer-Assisted Sperm Analysis (CASA) system. The results showed that most of the evaluated parameters did not differ significantly between treatments. Significant differences were observed in straight-line velocity (VSL) (P ≤ 0.05) and amplitude of lateral head displacement (ALH), with higher values recorded in semen cryopreserved with chicken egg yolk. These findings suggest that goose egg yolk may serve as an equivalent, although not superior, alternative to chicken egg yolk as a semen extender for ovine cryopreservation. Keywords: Cryopreservation; Egg Yolk Extenders; Ram Semen; Sperm Kinetics; Sperm Motility; Membrane Integrity; Assisted Reproduction.Item type: Ítem , Access status: Acceso Abierto , Evaluación longitudinal de cráneo en caninos braquicéfalos sin pedigree mediante la técnica de radiografía(Universidad Católica de Cuenca, 2026) Mendoza Parra , Carla MadelaineThe primary objective of this study was to analyze the cranial morphological changes in non-pedigreed brachycephalic dogs and to identify the incidence of respiratory disorders. Consequently, this study was conducted using a longitudinal approach, with a census of 30 canine patients older than one year, including both males and females. An imaging assessment was performed using two radiographic views: laterolateral and craniodorsoventral. Furthermore, the investigation focused on morphometric measurements obtained with Fiji software, enabling evaluation of cranial morphometric characteristics and their changes over time. Additionally, a tracheal morphometric analysis was performed in some patients to assess possible morphological abnormalities associated with respiratory collapse. Finally, the study aimed to contribute to clinical diagnosis by identifying the early respiratory conditions affecting these patients, such as brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS). Keywords Brachycephalic dogs; cranial morphology; radiography; longitudinal evaluation; respiratory system; tracheal morphometry.Item type: Ítem , Access status: Embargo , EMBARGADO POR MOTIVOS DE INVESTIGACIÓN(Universidad Católica de Cuenca., 2026) Carrillo Salinas, María Daniela...Item type: Ítem , Access status: Embargo , EMBARGADO POR MOTIVOS DE INVESTIGACIÓN(Universidad Católica de Cuenca., 2026) Zhunio Uyaguari, Shenser Xavier...Item type: Ítem , Access status: Acceso Abierto , Programa de adiestramiento de caninos mestizos como soporte emocional para personas en la ciudad de Cuenca(Universidad Católica de Cuenca, 2026) Castillo Agurto , Jhuleidy MaribelThis study evaluated a pilot positive reinforcement training program applied to four adult mixed-breed dogs in the city of Cuenca, Ecuador, with the aim of analyzing their behavioral response, learning capacity, and adaptation to stressful stimuli. A descriptive quasi- experimental design with a mixed-methods approach and case study methodology was used. Individualized training employed the Luring technique and basic commands such as "sit," "heel," and "stay." The evaluation included an adaptation of the Campbell test and a Likert- type scale to assess behavioral response. The results showed improvements in three of the four dogs, demonstrating greater tolerance to stressful stimuli, emotional stability, obedience, and learning. The "stay" command required more time to consolidate. The study concludes that positive reinforcement strengthened the human-animal bond and demonstrates the potential of mixed-breed dogs as emotional support animals, with prior experiences also influencing learning speed. Keywords Training; behavior; potential; adaptation; learning; bonding.Item type: Ítem , Access status: Acceso Abierto , TRABAJO DE TITULACIÓN EMBARGADO CON FINES DE PUBLICACION(Universidad Católica de Cuenca., 2026) Narváez Espinoza, Mayerly Fernanda...Item type: Ítem , Access status: Embargo , Proyecto de Titulación embargado con fines de publicación de alto impacto.(Universidad Católica de Cuenca., 2026) Sánchez Guzmán, Ana Gabriela.Item type: Ítem , Access status: Embargo , Item type: Ítem , Access status: Acceso Abierto , Variación de los efectos de la melatonina sobre la motilidad y funcionalidad del semen ovino refrigerado(Universidad Católica de Cuenca., 2026) Asanza Dominguez , Karen PaolaMelatonin is a potent indolaminic antioxidant that protects cell membrane integrity against oxidative stress and stabilizes mitochondrial functionality. To determine the functional dose of melatonin on chilled ram semen based on the variation of its effect on motility and sperm functionality was the objective of this study, evaluating various concentrations on Katahdin and Blackbelly ram semen at 5 °C. A logarithmic scale from 1/16 mM to 16 mM was used, with 8 replicates during 2, 4, and 24 hours. Results demonstrated that melatonin acts in a dose-dependent manner under a second-grade polynomial model as a function of log₂, reaching its maximum biological efficacy at 4 hours. During this period, optimal values were recorded for vitality (80%) with 1.46 mM, progressivity (40.20%) with doses near 16 mM, and linearity (38.06%) with 0.5 mM. The parabolic behavior of linearity warns of a biphasic effect, where excessive concentrations are counterproductive for cellular kinematics. It is concluded that a concentration of 1.5 mM represents the optimal balance to preserve the structure and displacement capacity of the ovine sperm in these breeds, being the suggested dose for subsequent cryopreservation. Keywords: Melatonin, cryopreservation, linearity, vitality, progressivenessItem type: Ítem , Access status: Acceso Abierto , Desempeño productivo y reproductivo de la hibridación Dorper X Corriedale Mestiza, y Pelibuey X Corriedale Mestiza(Universidad Católica de Cuenca., 2026) Veintimilla León, Luis EstebanThe hybridization Dorper × Corriedale Mestiza and Pelibuey × Corriedale Mestiza was evaluated in the parish of Jerusalén, Biblián-Azogues, as part of a genetic improvement program for local Andean sheep lines. Progeny performance was analyzed through productive parameters such as birth weight and body condition, as well as reproductive parameters in the dams, including pregnancy rate and mortality rate. A total of 50 Corriedale Mestiza ewes were inseminated using a 14-day synchronization protocol and a laparoscopic insemination technique. Pregnancy diagnosis was performed by ultrasonography at 35 days post-insemination, and lambs were evaluated during the first 72 hours postpartum. The results demonstrated the viability of these hybridizations through artificial insemination, where the heritability coefficient of the dams was a determining factor in the reproductive characteristics of the offspring. Mortality indices highlighted the importance of prior deworming before synchronization and vitamin supplementation, which contributed to positive outcomes and reduced mortality. It was concluded that selecting dams with higher body weight and good body condition improves the success of genetic improvement programs, while artificial insemination reduces inbreeding and enhances productive and reproductive traits. These findings demonstrate the feasibility of genetic improvement programs and their contribution to strengthening Andean sheep production systems as a key component of sustainable livestock development. Keywords: Progeny, hybridization, heritability, artificial insemination
