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: 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 inseminationItem type: Ítem , Access status: Acceso Abierto , Evaluación de la curva de sobrevivencia espermática en un cooler en diferentes intervalos de tiempo(Universidad Católica de Cuenca., 2026) Suqui Pinos, Michael XavierSheep production in Ecuador is experiencing a sustained decline in the national flock, coupled with constraints limiting the implementation of reproductive biotechnologies. This study evaluated the sperm survival curve of ram semen diluted with Triladyl® and refrigerated at 5°C in a cooler under field conditions. Viability (Eosin–Nigrosin), membrane integrity (HOST), and progressive motility were assessed from 0 to 24 hours using ANOVA (p<0.05) and linear regression analyses. The research was conducted at Universidad Católica de Cuenca within a community outreach project aimed at reactivating sheep production through the establishment of a germplasm bank using ejaculates from fertility-proven rams collected via artificial vagina. No significant differences were detected among the evaluated parameters; however, regression analyses revealed a gradual decline beginning at 2–6 hours, followed by subsequent stabilization. It is concluded that cooler refrigeration preserves viable seminal parameters for up to 24 hours, representing an accessible alternative for reproductive programs under real production conditions in the Andean region. Keywords: Ecuador; Ejaculates; Ovine; RefrigerationItem type: Ítem , Access status: Acceso Abierto , Evaluación del Efecto Combinado de Menaquinona 4 y Coenzima Q10 sobre la Crioconservación de Semen Ovino(Universidad Católica de Cuenca., 2026) Castro Sánchez, Dayana PatriciaThis experimental study analyzed the impact of the combined use of two antioxidants, menaquinone-4 and coenzyme Q10, on the quality of ovine semen subjected to cryopreservation, comparing them with the combined effect of each molecule together with L- carnitine and their individual use. This model allowed the evaluation of possible redox effects of the combinations and their saturation in the medium due to their high molecular weight. The effects of these six combinations were assessed in eight ejaculates, analyzing sperm motility, membrane integrity, and cell viability through eosin-nigrosin staining, propidium iodide, rhodamine, and motility evaluation using the CASA system. The results demonstrated a negative effect of the molecular combinations on sperm quality, attributable to medium saturation and increased ionic load, which generated damage to the sperm membrane. It was concluded that limited use of antioxidants in semen extenders is recommended. Keywords: L-carnitine; molecular weight; combined effect; sperm membraneItem type: Ítem , Access status: Acceso Abierto , Producción de Larvas de Mosca (Musca domestica) como Suplemento en Aves de Postura de Traspatio(Universidad Católica de Cuenca., 2026) Padilla Duchi, Jessica ElizabethThe fastest-growing livestock sector in Ecuador is poultry production, driven by the high demand of its products and by-products. Feed management represents a critical component of this production system, (as it determines the extent to which birds can express their productive potential.) This research aimed to evaluate the effect of fly larvae (Musca domestica) supplementation on egg production and quality in backyard laying hens. The larvae were obtained through a controlled rearing system, yielding 1 kg per week, which were collected and dehydrated. One kilogram of this supplement was added weekly to the birds’ diet over a continuous six-week period, resulting in a significant increase (p<0,05) in weekly egg production. A total of 365 eggs were produced, compared to 259 eggs in the control group that did not receive the mentioned supplement, representing a 48,65% increase relative to T2. In addition, supplementation with larvae improved yolk pigmentation of the eggs, reaching values of 15 according to the YolkFan scale, compared to values of 10 in the control group. This change may be associated with increased dietary protein levels, which enhance carotenoid assimilation and improve yolk pigmentation in hen eggs. These findings support the hypothesis that insect-based supplements enhance poultry production. Keywords: Musca domestica, backyard poultry, poultry nutrition, YolkfanItem type: Ítem , Access status: Acceso Abierto , Dexametasona como antiemético en pacientes quirúrgicos caninos tratados con protocolos postoperatorios de morfina(Universidad Católica de Cuenca., 2026) Alvarez Peñaloza, Karla GermaniaPostoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) represent a common complication in canines undergoing ovariohysterectomy (OVH), particularly when analgesic protocols involving morphine are utilized. This experimental study evaluated the efficacy of dexamethasone as an emetic prophylactic in 20 clinically healthy mixed-breed female dogs undergoing OVH under general anesthesia. The subjects were divided into four groups: two received preoperative administration of dexamethasone (0.2 mg/kg), while the remaining two received only morphine (0.2mg/kg) via subcutaneous injection and constant rate infusion (CRI). Clinical signs of PONV (emesis, nausea, and ptyalism), as well as their frequency and time of onset, were recorded. The results demonstrated a higher incidence of clinical signs in the groups receiving morphine alone—particularly via continuous infusion where the prophylactic administration of dexamethasone significantly reduced the frequency of PONV (p=0.02), showing a lower occurrence of nausea and emesis. These findings suggest that dexamethasone is an effective alternative for preventing opioid-induced PONV in canines, thereby contributing to enhanced postoperative recovery and animal welfare. Keywords: Dexamethasone; Morphine; Postoperative Nausea and Vomiting; Dogs; Continuous Infusion.Item type: Ítem , Access status: Acceso Abierto , Tipificación sanguínea en caninos (CANIS LUPUS FAMILIARIS) mestizos con el método rápido blood typing card en el refugio Arca-Cuenca(Universidad Católica de Cuenca., 2026) Calle Saeteros , Walter RománA study was conducted on blood typing in mixed-breed dogs at the Arca-Cuenca shelter, using the rapid method known as “Blood Typing Card” with the objective to determine the proportion of each blood type and establish its predominance in relation to sex and coat type. Blood samples were taken from the cephalic vein of 60 canines, of which 83% had Dea type 1.1 and 17% had Dea type 1.2, with no records of Dea type 1.3. The blood group distribution showed a slight majority of females in Dea type group 1.1 and a higher proportion of males in Dea type group 1.2. In addition, the Dea type group 1.1 predominated in short- haired canines. Significant correlations were found between sex and blood type, as well as correlations between blood type and coat type. These findings suggest a low genetic diversity in the analyzed population due to the predominance of the Dea 1.1 blood group (83%) and the absence of other blood types, suggesting a close genetic relationship and possible inbreeding in the analyzed population, possibly due to inbreeding, and highlighting the importance of blood typing in improve veterinary care in the shelter. The main conclusion was that blood typing in mixed-breed canines from the Arca-Cuenca shelter revealed that the most common blood group is Dea 1.1 (83%), with a slight majority of females in this group, meanwhile Dea 1.2, predominantly in males, showed a relationship with coat type, suggesting significant correlations between blood type, sex and phenotypic traits in the analyzed population. Keywords: typing, blood, ArcaItem type: Ítem , Access status: Embargo , Uso de la clipnosis para la inmovilización de gatos en la consulta clínica(Universidad Católica de Cuenca., 2026) Román Sánchez, Daniel Alejandro...Item type: Ítem , Access status: Acceso Abierto , Proyecto de Titulación embargado con fines de publicación de impacto.(Universidad Católica de Cuenca., 2026) Rubio Tapia , Daniela Michelle.Item type: Ítem , Access status: Acceso Abierto , Uso de cannabidiol como agente reductor de ansiedad en caninos con Hiperapego(Universidad Católica de Cuenca., 2025) D'Vries Toral, Erick JohanItem type: Ítem , Access status: Acceso Abierto , Evaluación del Efecto Combinado de la menaquinona-4 y L-carnitina sobre la Crioconservación del Semen Ovino(Universidad Católica de Cuenca., 2025) Lema Guamán, María FlorThis biological research was conducted at the Reproduction Laboratory of the Universidad Católica de Cuenca, Ecuador, and focused on the cryopreservation of ram genetics, a process that negatively affects sperm functionality and viability due primarily to oxidative stress (OS) generated during freezing and thawing, as a consequence of the biochemical properties of the sperm plasma membrane. The study evaluated the post-thaw effect of L-Carnitine (1 mM) and Menaquinone-4 (1 mM), individually and in combination (1 mM × 1 mM), on ovine semen collected from a single ram, assessing vitality, viability, plasma membrane integrity, mitochondrial activity, and sperm kinetics using the Computer Assisted Sperm Analysis (CASA) system. Significant differences (p<0.05) were detected in several parameters, where the membrane integrity (%HOST, p=0.002) indicated a negative effect associated with ionic imbalance, the high immotile index (p=0.047) reflected excess additives in the extender, and the reduced linearity (%LIN, p=0.005) was related to the absence of cofactors supporting antioxidant activity. The high variability among internal and external factors (replicates) affecting sperm performance suggests that antioxidant dosage and exposure times must be considered to better understand their synergistic or antagonistic biological effects under oxidative stress conditions. Keywords: Antioxidant; Ecuador; Biological Effects; Oxidative Stress; Genetics; Biological Research.Item type: Ítem , Access status: Acceso Abierto , Evaluación del efecto combinado de Coenzima Q10 y L-Carnitina sobre la crioconservación de semen ovino(Universidad Católica de Cuenca., 2025) Guamarrigra Sánchez, Ibel CarolinaOne of the main limitations for cryopreservation of ram semen as part of veterinary science is its high sensitivity to reactive oxygen species (ROS). Spermatozoa are constantly exposed to this damage due to changes in temperature, light, and their own biochemical nature, which affects their viability, motility, and functionality. This highlights the need to use additives with antioxidant properties, given their apparent positive impact on the preservation of animal genetics. The objective of this study was to evaluate the combined effect of adding Coenzyme Q10 (0.05 mM), a widely used antioxidant in reproductive supplementation, and L-Carnitine (1 mM), an amino acid derivative with functions in fatty acid transport and antioxidant activity, to the freezing medium. For this purpose, eight semen samples were collected from a single ram, and the treatments included CoQ10 (0.05 mM), L-Carnitine (1 mM), both molecules combined at the same doses, and a control (Tryladil). Motility, viability, membrane integrity and functionality, as well as mitochondrial activity, sperm progressivity, and kinematics were assessed using the C.A.S.A. (Computer Assisted Sperm Analysis System). The results showed negative effects (p<0.05) of the combined solution on all sperm quality parameters compared to the control and L-Carnitine alone, while no significant differences (p>0.05) were observed in sperm kinematics. It is therefore concluded that the combined addition of L-Carnitine and CoQ10 to the freezing medium alters the redox balance at the sperm level and reduces fertility potential. Keywords: Animal Genetics; Biochemical; Fertility; Samples; Veterinary ScienceItem type: Ítem , Access status: Acceso Abierto , Determinación de rangos hematológicos de gatos mestizos en altitud: caso parroquia el Batán Cuenca – Ecuador(Universidad Católica de Cuenca., 2025) Brito Cordero, Génesis DayannaThe expansion of the feline population in households has increased the demand for specialized care in the region. However, commonly used hematological reference ranges come from studies conducted with purebred cats living at sea level, limiting their applicability in high-altitude areas. This study focused on establishing hematological reference values for mixed-breed cats at altitudes above 2500 meters above sea level, specifically in the parish of El Batán (Cuenca). Blood tests, extracted from the jugular vein, were analyzed in 106 apparently healthy cats (53 females and 53 males), and processed using an automated system using Dymind DH36 vet analyzer. To establish statistically normal ranges, the Student’s t-test and Tukey’s test were used, using the Infostat program, and the confidence interval (95%CI) was calculated, comparing the results with values reported in the literature. Most parameters were found to be within standard ranges, although with lower variance than the values reported by Suiza vet, Merck Manual, or laboratories using automated equipment. However, it was determined that MID% (8.76–9.85) was above the upper reference limit (9%) in 48% of cases, and the MCHC (35.70–36.63 g/dL) exceeded the limit of 36 g/dL in 52% of cases, which could be attributed to preanalytical factors or physiological characteristics specific to these animals adapted to altitude. No statistically significant differences were found in terms of sex (p>0.05). Keywords Dymind DH36 vet; Complete blood count; Sex; FelinesItem type: Ítem , Access status: Embargo , Impacto de la predisposición al ordeño en la validación de la termografía infrarroja para detectar mastitis subclínica bovina(Universidad Católica de Cuenca., 2025) Calle Pizarrro , Lia AlexandraxxItem type: Ítem , Access status: Acceso Abierto , Utilización del test de Campbell para la identificación de dominancia y aversión en cachorros de la ciudad de Cuenca-Ecuador(Universidad Católica de Cuenca., 2025) Alvear Pugo, Jessica Fernanda00Item type: Ítem , Access status: Acceso Abierto , Determinación del efecto post congelación de microdosis de menaquinona-4 en semen ovino(Universidad Católica de Cuenca., 2025) Farfán Alvarado, Karen DayanaThe ovine semen presents particularly high levels of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) in its plasma membrane. This composition causes high instability, making sperm cells prone to reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation. Oxidative stress (OS), triggered by thermal shock and atmospheric oxygen during cryopreservation, increases susceptibility to lipid peroxidation (LPO). Antioxidant supplementation acts and reacts as a protective strategy against this damage. This study proposed Menaquinone-4 (MK-4), a vitamin K homolog from the Menaquinone group, as a potential sperm antioxidant. We tested in the Reproduction Laboratory at Universidad Católica de Cuenca three microdoses of MK-4 (0.5 µM, 1 µM, 2 µM) to assess its effect on post-thaw ovine semen. Results showed dose-dependent variability compared to the control. At 2 µM, membrane integrity parameters were similar to the control. However, the 0.5 µM dose improved progressive motility. These differences suggest that MK-4 efficacy depends on the enzymatic capacity of sperm cells. The absence of UBIAD1 enzyme in donor gonads, due to the lack of endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi apparatus in sperm cells, limits MK-4 utilization. Therefore, antioxidant performance depends on intracellular enzyme availability. This biochemical limitation explains the inconsistent results across doses. MK-4 may offer cryoprotective benefits under specific cellular conditions, particularly in sperm with active metabolic machinery. Findings highlight the importance of considering enzymatic context when using fat-soluble antioxidants in cryopreservation protocols. Further research is needed to optimize MK-4 concentrations and evaluate its in vivo impact on fertility parameters. Keywords: PUFA; EO; LPO; ROS; UBIAD1Item type: Ítem , Access status: Acceso Abierto , Uso del espejo olfatorio para el reconocimiento individual en caninos adultos de diferentes núcleos familiares(Universidad Católica de Cuenca., 2025) Zuñiga Barba, Paola GabrielaThis study evaluated the capacity for olfactory self-recognition in adult dogs through the application of an "olfactory mirror" test, adapted from the model proposed by Horowitz (2017). Nine adult female dogs from different family groups were selected and exposed to various odoriferous stimuli (their own urine, unfamiliar urine, collar, and an item of clothing belonging to their guardian) with the aim of analyzing their ability for individual and affiliative discrimination. In order to accomplish this, the nine dogs were assessed in a controlled setting across nine different sessions, during which they were exposed to the various stimuli hidden under a cone. The frequency and intensity of their approach to each stimulus were recorded and analyzed. The results revealed a marked preference for their own urine and their guardian’s clothing, highlighting a socio-emotional function of the olfactory system in self-identity recognition and family bonding. Although not all stimuli elicited consistent responses—such as the collar—the observed behavioral patterns support the presence of a functional olfactory self-recognition ability in dogs, with direct implications for their welfare in both clinical and social contexts. It is concluded that the sense of smell constitutes a key sensory pathway in the construction of social bonds and in the perception of the “self,” and its integration into handling strategies and environmental enrichment in veterinary medicine is recommended. Keywords: Self-recognition; Bonds; Socio-emotional; Odoriferous.Item type: Ítem , Access status: Acceso Abierto , Presencia de Cryptococcus neoformans en balanceado a granel para perros en cuatro mercados de la ciudad de Cuenca.(Universidad Católica de Cuenca., 2025) Morales Bucheli , Daniel FernandoCryptococcus neoformans is an encapsulated yeast of medical and veterinary importance, associated with cryptococcosis ―an opportunistic mycosis that mainly affects immunocompromised individuals. This study aimed to evaluate the presence of Cryptoccocus neoformans in bulk dog food sold in five busy markets in the city of Cuenca, considering this food as a possible vehicle for dissemination of the fungus to pets and people. A total of 45 samples were collected cultured on Sabouraud agar supplemented with Chloramphenicol, and incubated at 37°C for seven days. The macroscopic study showed the growth of whitish and creamy colonies accompanied by opportunistic molds. By microscopic examination and subsequent identification by MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry, the presence of Candida parapsilosis was confirmed. C. neoformans was not detected in the samples analyzed. These findings show the microbiological contamination of food by yeasts associated with pigeon droppings, which represents a potential risk to public health, especially for vulnerable populations exposed to contaminated aerosols. Keywords: Cryptococcus neoformans, dog food, microbiological contamination, pigeon droppings, public health.Item type: Ítem , Access status: Acceso Abierto , Simbióticos reforzados con enzimas: una alternativa sostenible a los antibióticos promotores de crecimiento en pollos Broiler(Universidad Católica de Cuenca., 2025) Andrade Muyulema , Erick Saul; Ramirez Gallardo, Bismarck NeyThis study evaluated the effect of dietary supplementation with enzyme-enhanced symbiotic on productive, immunological, digestive, and histo-morphological parameters in broiler chickens. The research was conducted under commercial conditions in the Balsas canton, El Oro province (Ecuador), using a longitudinal experimental design. A total of 84,000 birds were randomly allocated to four treatments: T0 (control), T1 (0.01%), T2 (0.03%), and T3 (0.05%) symbiotic, all combined with 0.01% protease enzymes. Productive performance, apparent digestibility, intestinal morphometry, and serum immunoglobulins (IgY, IgM, IgA) were assessed on days 1 and 21 of age. Treatment T2 (0.03%) yielded the best zootechnical performance, with greater weight gain, more efficient feed conversion, and enhanced intestinal mucosal development, as evidenced by increased villus length and density. Additionally, T2 improved crude protein and fat digestibility and significantly stimulated IgM production, suggesting more effective enteric immune activation. In contrast, T3 (0.05%) exhibited negative effects on intestinal morphology and weight gain, indicating that higher concentrations may cause physiological interference. No clear dose-dependent trend was observed for crude fiber and dry matter digestibility. Statistical analysis confirmed significant differences (p < 0.05) among treatments. In conclusion, supplementation with 0.03% symbiotic enhanced with enzymes proved to be the most effective strategy for improving intestinal health, nutrient utilization, and productive performance in broiler chickens, establishing itself as a promising functional alternative for intensive poultry systems. Keywords: Synbiotics; enzymes; broiler chickens; productive parameters; intestinal morphometry; immunoglobulins; digestibilit.
