Medicina Veterinaria-Pregrado

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Perfil socioeconómico y productivo de las familias encargadas de la crianza de cuyes en la parroquia rural de Ricaurte del cantón Cuenca, desde una perspectiva de género
(Universidad de Cuenca, 2025-02-11) Jarama Quito, Yadira Valeria; Puglla Vacacela, Delia Josefina; Machuca Machuca, Diana Angélica
The present research work proposed to analyze the socioeconomic and productive profile of guinea pig producing families in the rural parish of Ricaurte in Cuenca canton, with a gender approach. The study used an integrated methodology (qualitative, quantitative and participatory). The following techniques were used for data collection: survey, interviews and creative workshop. The data obtained were analyzed using descriptive statistics and content analysis techniques. The main results showed a female predominance, in age ranges from 35 to 54 years old. With primary education and raising improved guinea pigs, fed on cut rye grass and alfalfa, raised in cages. There is limited training (7,5%), technical advice (0,0%) and access to productive credit (0,0%). The most common diseases are tympanism and pediculosis. Marketing is carried out in four ways: fattening guinea pigs on the hoof/month, roasted guinea pigs for sale, slaughtered fattening guinea pigs/month, and breeding guinea pigs/month. The selling price varies according to the mode and marketing channel, with fattening guinea pigs being the most frequent, selling 5,3 guinea pigs per month at an average price of US 9,7 dollars. The main items of production expenses are: food and medicine. In conclusion, the guinea pig production process in the Ricaurte parish was characterized by limited access to credit and advice, a situation that limits the generation of economic resources and the improvement of women's socioeconomic conditions.
Uso de harina de larva de mosca soldado negra (Hermetia illucens), como fuente de proteína, sobre parámetros productivos e inmunológicos en pollos broiler (Gallus gallus)
(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Ciencias Agropecuarias, 2026-04-15) Carmilema Guanga, Gabriela Estefania; Matute Portilla, John Paul; Astudillo Riera, Fabián Manuel
The use of alternative ingredients in poultry feed is an important strategy for improving sustainability and reducing dependence on conventional protein sources. In this context, Hermetia illucens larvae meal stands out for its high protein content and low environmental impact. The objective of the study was to evaluate the effect of including black soldier fly larvae meal (HLMSN) in vegetable diets for broiler chickens on productive and immunological parameters. Three hundred mixed Cobb 500 day-old chickens were used, randomly distributed into four treatments with seven replicates, which included a diet without meal (T1) and three ascending levels of partial substitution (T2: 4-3-2%; T3: 6-4.5-3%; T4: 8-6-4%) for the starter, grower, and finisher stages, respectively. Live weight, feed intake, feed conversion, and mortality were recorded weekly. Weight, morphometry, and morphometric index of the thymus, spleen, and Fabricius' bursa were evaluated at 21 and 42 days, as well as tarsal pigmentation, complemented by an economic analysis. The results indicate that the intermediate levels (T2 and T3) showed better production results without affecting feed conversion, lymphoid organ integrity, or mortality, maintaining adequate tarsal pigmentation and acceptable profitability. In conclusion, H. illucens meal appears to be a viable and sustainable protein alternative for broiler production.
Diagnóstico de neoplasias cutáneas y subcutáneas en perros de la ciudad de Cuenca: Correlación de estudio citológico e histopatológico
(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Ciencias Agropecuarias, 2026-04-10) Rubio Zambrano, José Alberto; Zúñiga Cobos, Daysi Estefanía
Cytology is a minimally invasive technique, easy to perform, and provides rapid results in the preliminary diagnosis of neoplasms in dogs, allowing the establishment of appropriate treatments for each pathology. The aim of this study was to correlate diagnostic techniques to identify cutaneous neoplasms in dogs in the city of Cuenca. The study included 50 samples from dogs with a previous diagnosis of cutaneous neoplasms. Samples for cytology were obtained by fine needle puncture (FNP), fine needle aspiration (FNA), and imprinting. For histopathological analysis, the tumor was preserved in 10% formaldehyde and sent to a veterinary laboratory. Data were analyzed using crosstabs, chi-square, and Fisher's exact test using the SPSS statistical package. The results reflect that, in 86% of cases, the cytological diagnosis was correlated with the histopathological diagnosis, demonstrating high reliability as a preliminary technique for the detection of skin neoplasms, especially mast cell tumors, lipomas, and adenomas, which presented a high prevalence (28% and 12% each), respectively. However, there are certain neoplasms such as melanoma, hepatoid gland tumors, and mesenchymal tumors that require histopathological confirmation. In conclusion, cytology and histopathology are useful diagnostic methods for skin neoplasms in dogs; however, histopathology remains the definitive diagnostic method for verification tumor type.
Comparación del cierre de heridas en perros tratados con plasma rico en plaquetas (PRP) o con miel de manuka en la ciudad de Cuenca
(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Ciencias Agropecuarias, 2026-03-13) Silva Camas, Miguel Sebastian; Picón Saavedra, Marco Antonio
Second-intention healing in veterinary medicine represents a clinical challenge that requires efficient therapeutic options. The present study evaluated and compared the evolution of wound closure by second intention in dogs treated with calcium gluconate-activated plateletrich plasma (PRP) versus the use of manuka honey in the city of Cuenca. A total of 10 patients with open wounds were used, divided into 2 groups of 5 individuals for each treatment: treatment one (T1): platelet-rich plasma (PRP); treatment two (T2): manuka Honey. The wounds were evaluated and measured using the Kundin method, which determines the surface area in cm². This procedure was performed on all patients on the day they arrived at the clinic (day 0) and on days 1, 3, 5, 7, 10, 15 and 21. The data were tabulated in a database in Microsoft Excel and analyzed in the IBM SPSS version 27 statistical software. Descriptive statistics were used for the analysis, it was verified that the data of each group followed a normal distribution with the Shapiro-Wilk test, and the student’s t-test was applied for independent samples. The results showed that both treatments are effective; however, the group treated with PRP showed a higher percentage of healing (98.52%) at day 21 compared to the manuka honey group (93.55%), with a value of p=0.033 demonstrating that there is a difference of 4.97 percentage points that is statistically significant in favor of PRP.
Identificación de las cepas vacunales y las variantes de Parvovirus canino tipo 2 en muestras de caninos (Canis lupus familiaris)
(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Ciencias Agropecuarias, 2026-03-16) Sinche Montaleza, Christian Damián; Aucancela Yunganaula, María Elena
Canine Parvovirus type 2 (CPV-2) is a highly contagious viral disease that primarily affects young and unvaccinated dogs. It is characterized by an acute clinical presentation including vomiting, hemorrhagic diarrhea, fever, anorexia, panleukopenia, and severe dehydration, leading to high morbidity and mortality in the canine population. Its epidemiological dynamics are influenced by the emergence of variants (CPV-2a, CPV-2b, and CPV-2c), which increase the infective capacity of the virus and may compromise the effectiveness of traditional vaccination programs. The aim of this study was to differentiate vaccine strains from field strains of CPV-2 and subsequently identify CPV-2 variants in dogs suspected of infection using an ARMS-PCR assay. A total of 41 canine rectal swab samples were collected, from which genetic material was extracted for analysis using conventional PCR and ARMS-PCR. In an initial process control, 32 samples were deemed viable for amplification. PCR diagnosis revealed that 28 of these samples (87.5%) were positive for CPV-2. Subsequently, ARMS-PCR assays enabled the differentiation between vaccine and field strains and the determination of the viral variant present. Most cases corresponded to field strains. Among the 26 samples in which variants were identified, CPV-2c was the most prevalent (80.76%), followed by CPV-2b (15.39%) and CPV-2a (3.85%). In conclusion, the ARMS-PCR technique is an effective tool for distinguishing whether viral shedding in feces corresponds to vaccine or field strains, as well as for identifying circulating CPV-2 variants. These findings provide valuable information for optimizing prevention, control, and vaccination strategies against this disease.
Efecto de la adición de capsaicina en dosis de 41 mg/kg de peso vivo sobre la transferencia de inmunidad pasiva en neonatos bovinos
(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Ciencias Agropecuarias, 2026-03-11) Mogrovejo Muy, Camila Alexandra; Rodas Carpio, Ermes Ramiro
The transfer of passive immunity (TPI) from the mother to the calf through the placenta is limited in bovines due to the species' placental structure. Therefore, the quality and quantity of colostrum provided in the first hours of life are critical to prevent failures in passive immunity transfer (FTPI). In recent years, the use of additives has been investigated to improve the absorption of immunoglobulins and other colostrum components. This study evaluated the effect of capsaicin on the absorption of immunoglobulins with the aim of optimizing TPI in bovine neonates. Two experimental groups were formed: a control group (CON), which received only colostrum in three doses (1 h, 12 h, and 20 h post-partum), and a capsaicin group (CAP), which was supplemented with 41 mg of this compound in each colostrum intake. At 48 hours post-colostrum feeding, the calves in the CAP group had significantly higher concentrations of IgG, total proteins (TP), and albumin compared to the CON group (P < 0.001), with a specific increase in IgG of 39.35 %. In conclusion, the addition of 41 mg of capsaicin to the colostrum does not pose a risk to calf health and helps improve the efficiency of TPI in holstein crossbred calves raised at altitudes above 2500 altitude. These findings suggest that capsaicin could be a promising strategy to optimize immunoglobulin absorption and improve the metabolic status of bovine neonates in high-altitude conditions.
Efectos de dos fitobióticos anticoccidiales en las lesiones intestinales en pollos de engorde desafiados a Eimeria spp
(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Ciencias Agropecuarias, 2026-02-25) Japa Aucay, Alex Wilson; Rodríguez Saldaña, Diego Fernando
Avian coccidiosis, caused by protozoa of the genus Eimeria spp., represents one of the main health constraints in broiler chicken production, affecting their health and productive performance. The objective of this research was to evaluate the effect of two commercial saponin sources (Peptasan and FORCIX®) on macroscopic and microscopic intestinal lesions. The study was conducted using an experimental design with 304 Cobb 500 broiler chickens, distributed into four treatments: T1 (control), T2 (conventional anticoccidial program), T3 (Peptasan: saponins), and T4 (FORCIX®). Clinical parameters such as fecal condition, cloaca, litter quality, macroscopic lesions, morphometric analysis of villi and crypts, histopathological analysis, and oocyst count per gram using the McMaster technique were evaluated, with comparative statistical analysis (ANOVA). The results indicate that T1 developed a subclinical infection with oocyst shedding and progressive worsening with age. Treatments with the additive partially reduced the parasite load, with T3 showing the greatest villus length and trends toward better production indicators and lower mortality compared to T1. T2 and T4 showed less macroscopic cecal lesions compared to the control, while T4 was associated with greater crypt depth. Litter quality, fecal alteration, and pododermatitis increased over time, and the additives did not completely prevent them. It is concluded that saponins exert a modulating effect on intestinal lesions, representing a viable alternative for the sustainable management of avian coccidiosis.
Prevalencia de sobrepeso y obesidad en perros de la ciudad de Cuenca, Ecuador
(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Ciencias Agropecuarias, 2026-02-11) Flor Aguirre, Joel Sebastián; Picón Saavedra, Marco Antonio
Obesity represents a growing health crisis that links human health with that of companion animals, affecting nearly 55% of the canine and feline population. This condition can shorten a dog's life expectancy by up to 30% by triggering serious diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, orthopedic problems, and cancer. There are also risk factors such as breed, age, and sex. The objective of this study is to estimate the prevalence and analyze the possible risk factors associated with overweight and obesity in dogs in the city of Cuenca. The evaluation was based on the determination of the Body Condition Score. It was obtained by applying the WSAVA scale from 1 to 9. The statistical analysis was performed in IBM SPSS, classifying body condition in individuals without overweight and obesity (BCS ≤ 5) and those with these conditions (BCS ≥ 6). Prevalence was determined using descriptive statistics, and bivariate associations were evaluated using the Chi-square and Mann-Whitney U tests (after the Shapiro-Wilk test). The magnitude of association was determined using OR with a p-value < 0.05. The results obtained show a combined prevalence of overweight and obesity of 39.15% (32.86% overweight and 6.29% obese). The most decisive risk factor is age (62.0%), with race and reproductive status also comprising important risk factors; however, gender and physical activity were not shown to have an effect on the individual's nutritional status.
Caracterización de la población de perros (Canis lupus familiaris) en el Área de Conservación Tinajillas - Río Gualaceño
(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Ciencias Agropecuarias, 2026-02-13) Torres Llanos, Samantha Danae; Estrella Bermeo, Carlos Adrián
The presence of domestic dogs (Canis lupus familiaris) on natural areas, represent an emerging challenge for biodiversity conservation, particularly in protected natural areas, due to their high adaptive capacity and potential ecological impacts. The objective of this study was to evaluate the presence, distribution, and activity patterns of dogs in the Tinajillas – Río Gualaceño Municipal Conservation Area. Sampling was conducted using camera trap stations distributed across different types of vegetation cover, including forest, pastureland, and transitional zones, under an observational, descriptive, and cross-sectional approach. The images obtained were processed using artificial intelligence tools combined with manual review, allowing the identification of independent events and the recording of the number of individuals. Relative abundance was estimated using the Relative Capture Index (RCI), while daily activity patterns were analyzed based on the time recorded for each event. The results revealed differences in the frequency of dog records among vegetation covers, with a higher presence in pasture areas, registering a total of 37 individuals and 14 events were recorded. Likewise, activity patterns showed a predominance of diurnal activity with 43 individuals, followed by crepuscular activity with 6 individuals. These findings highlight the usefulness of camera trapping for monitoring domestic dogs and emphasize the need to strengthen management strategies.
Evaluación de la calprotectina fecal como biomarcador en el diagnóstico de la Enfermedad Inflamatoria Intestinal en perros de la ciudad de Cuenca
(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Ciencias Agropecuarias, 2026-02-12) Ayala Méndez, Emily Yairis; Tamayo Zambrano, Andrea Pavlova; Picón Saavedra, Marco Antonio
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) in dogs is a chronic condition with gastrointestinal manifestations, characterized by chronic diarrhea, as well as other signs that may include vomiting, weight loss, and abdominal pain. Definitive diagnosis is based on histopathological examination of the affected tissue, an invasive and costly procedure. Therefore, this study evaluated the usefulness of fecal calprotectin as a non-invasive biomarker for the diagnosis of IBD in dogs in the city of Cuenca, Ecuador. Thirty-six patients were analyzed, divided into three groups of 12 dogs each: healthy dogs, dogs with acute diarrhea, and dogs with IBD confirmed by histopathology. Fecal calprotectin levels were measured using ELISA. The results revealed significant differences between the groups (p < 0.05). In Tukey´s test, we observed two homogeneous subsets shared by healthy patients and those with acute diarrhea, with values significantly lower than those of the second subset, which corresponds to patients with IBD. These findings support the effectiveness of using fecal calprotectin as a biomarker to differentiate IBD from other gastrointestinal pathologies.
Valores de creatina fosfocinasa, haptoglobina y microhematocrito en ganado bovino lechero criado en dos pisos altitudinales
(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Ciencias Agropecuarias, 2026-02-12) Ortega Patiño, Bryan Gabriel; Rocano Parra, Tábata Raquel; Maldonado Rivera, Jaime Eduardo
The objective of this study was to evaluate the variation in blood concentrations of creatine phosphokinase (CPK), serum haptoglobin (Hp), and microhematocrit (HCT) in dairy cattle raised at two different altitudes. A cross-sectional observational study was conducted, in which blood samples were collected from clinically healthy cattle belonging to different farms. CPK, Hp, and HCT concentrations were estimated using conventional laboratory methods, and the data collected were statistically analyzed to determine the variation in relation to altitude. The results did not show statistically significant variations between the altitude levels evaluated for CPK and Hp; however, there was evidence of wide individual variability, particularly in CPK values. On the other hand, Hp concentrations showed minimal inflammation in most of the cattle studied. The variability of the aforementioned blood parameters could be attributed to non-pathological factors unrelated to altitude, such as the animals' adequate physiological adaptation, environmental conditions, as well as management and individual differences. However, altitude did influence HCTt levels, with higher values at high altitude (> 2800 masl) and lower values at low altitude (≤ 2800 masl), despite the difference between altitudes being approximately 350 masl. It is concluded that, under the conditions of the present study, altitude did not generate a statistically significant variation in blood CPK and Hp concentrations; however, an influence of altitude on microhematocrit values was evident. These results provide important information on the physiological variation of blood biomarkers in dairy cattle and may serve as a reference for future research.
Caracterización de hongos dermatofitos causantes de infecciones en perros atendidos en el Hospital Municipal de la Mascota y la Fundación ARCA de Cuenca, Ecuador
(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Ciencias Agropecuarias, 2026-02-12) Avila Robles, Laura Elizabeth; Sigua Morocho, Shakira; Andrade Guzmán, Omar Santiago
This study aimed to characterize the dermatophyte fungi responsible for infections in dogs treated at the Municipal Pet Hospital and the ARCA Foundation. A total of 104 dogs were included in the study, 52 from each institution. Samples were obtained by skin scrapings from dogs with lesions suggestive of fungal dermatopathies and were processed in the Microbiology Laboratory of the University of Cuenca for culture, incubation, and colony identification. A total of 198 fungal isolates were identified, considering the presence of multiple isolates per sample. Of these, 51% corresponded to the ARCA Foundation and 49% to the Municipal Pet Hospital. Thirteen colony types were identified, of which 31.8% were dermatophytes. The dermatophyte Trichophyton mentagrophytes was the most frequent in both institutions, with a frequency of 29%, followed by yeasts (26%) and Penicillium spp. (15.5%). The difference in the number of isolated colonies between institutions was minimal, indicating that the presence of the various fungal colonies does not depend on the type of institution, but rather on other patient exposure factors. Furthermore, the statistical association between the different etiological agents, the type of lesion, and its anatomical distribution was evaluated using contingency tables. The Chi-square test did not show a statistically significant association (p>0.05), and the low or negative Kappa index indicated poor agreement between the variables, highlighting the importance of mycological culture for accurate etiological identification.
Evaluación de la digestibilidad in vitro de la materia seca de dietas a base de subproductos agroindustriales en cobayos (Cavia porcellus)
(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Ciencias Agropecuarias, 2026-02-13) García Fernández, Katherine Maribel; Morocho Correa, Kevin Alejandro; Haro Haro, Andrés Norberto
The use of agro-industrial by-products in guinea pig (Cavia porcellus) feeding represents a strategic alternative to reduce feeding costs and improve the sustainability of production systems, provided that adequate nutrient utilization is ensured. Therefore, the objective of this study was to evaluate the nutritional value of diets formulated with the inclusion of agroindustrial by-products, based on their chemical composition and in vitro digestibility. Experimental diets were formulated including broccoli and cabbage at inclusion levels of 5 and 20%. In vitro dry matter digestibility was evaluated using a three-stage system simulating ileal digestion and cecal fermentation, including pH measurement and gas production as indicators of fermentative activity. The diets showed a balanced chemical composition, with crude protein contents ranging from 14 to 16%, low lignin levels (2.4 and 2.9%), and moderate concentrations of non-structural carbohydrates (32 and 36%). Ileal dry matter digestibility did not differ among treatments (P > 0.05). However, fecal and total dry matter digestibility showed significant differences (P < 0.01), mainly attributable to cecal fermentation. Diets with 20% inclusion of by-products, particularly broccoli, exhibited higher total dry matter digestibility values (up to 62%) and greater cumulative gas production, associated with a lower cecal pH. In conclusion, the inclusion of agro-industrial by-products in guinea pig diets does not affect pre-cecal enzymatic digestion but significantly modulates cecal fermentation, thereby improving overall dry matter utilization. These results support the use of plant by-products as nutritionally viable alternatives in guinea pig feed, provided they are formulated considering their impact on cecal fermentation dynamics.
Evaluación de la respuesta ovárica a la estimulación con dosis baja de hormona foliculoestimulante (FSH), administrada vía epidural previa a la aspiración folicular ecoguiada (OPU)
(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Ciencias Agropecuarias, 2026-02-12) Angel Quimbay, Xiomara Tatiana; Romero Pacheco, Dennis Andres; Villavicencio Delgado, Luis Antonio; Ayala Guanga, Luis Eduardo
The research was conducted at the Nero experimental farm of the University of Cuenca, with the aim of evaluating the efficacy of epidural administration of a low dose (125 IU) of follicle- stimulating hormone (FSH) applied in a single administration. Eight heifers were used, initially as a control group (T0) and subsequently as a treatment group (T1), under an intra-subject design. Prior to the start of the experiment, the restart of the follicular wave was synchronized using a protocol that included estradiol benzoate (E2), prostaglandin F2α (PGF2α), and an intravaginal progesterone device (IVD). Day 4 of the protocol was considered the start of the experiment, at which time the T0 group received a placebo, while the T1 group received 125 IU of FSH epidurally. Antral follicle count (AFC) and follicular diameter measurement were performed on days 4, 5, and 6 by ultrasonography. Ultrasound-guided follicular aspiration (OPU) and morphological evaluation of cumulus-oocyte complexes (COC) were performed on day 6. The results showed similar follicular diameters (P > 0.05) on day 4 (T0: 4.0 ± 0.18 mm; T1: 3.9 ± 0.11 mm). However, on day 5, a significant increase in antral follicle size was observed in T1 (5.9 ± 0.20 mm) compared to T0 (4.8 ± 0.16 mm), This trend continued on day 6 (T1: 6.7 ± 0.13 mm; T0: 5.05 ± 0.14 mm). The percentage of oocyte retrieval was higher at T1 (68.5%) than at T0 (53.1%), as was the percentage of COCs suitable for in vitro embryo production (IVEP) (74.2% vs. 56.7%). In conclusion, epidural administration of 125 IU of FSH promoted the development of larger antral follicles, which improved the efficiency and quality of oocyte retrieval by ultrasound-guided follicular aspiration.
Relación entre la concentración de la hormona Foliculoestimulante y el crecimiento folicular en respuesta a la estimulación ovárica con dosis baja (125 UI) de hormona por vía epidural
(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Ciencias Agropecuarias, 2026-02-12) Boada Alvarez, Gonzalo Abraham; Torres Cueva, David Ramón; Vega Barrionuevo, Jeremy Mateo; Ayala Guanga, Luis Eduardo
The present study aimed to evaluate the endocrine and ovarian responses to stimulation with a low dose of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) administered via the epidural route in bovine heifers. The study was conducted at the Nero Experimental Farm of the University of Cuenca, using eight crossbred Holstein heifers, which initially served as the control group (T0) and subsequently as the treated group (T1). Prior to treatment, follicular wave synchronization was performed through the administration of estradiol benzoate, prostaglandin F2α, and an intravaginal progesterone-releasing device. On day 4 of the protocol, animals in T1 received a single epidural dose of 125 IU of FSH, whereas those in T0 received a placebo. Blood samples were collected on days 4, 5, and 6 of the protocol at four daily time points to determine serum FSH concentrations, in addition to ultrasonographic evaluations of follicular development. The results demonstrated a significant increase in FSH concentrations in the treated group starting two hours after administration, with elevated levels maintained until day 6 of the protocol. This hormonal increase was associated with more sustained and stable follicular growth compared with the control group. In conclusion, epidural administration of a low dose of FSH induced a favorable hormonal profile that optimized follicular development, representing an efficient alternative for protocols preceding ultrasound-guided follicular aspiration in bovine heifers.
Análisis bibliográfico sistemático del uso y beneficios del propóleo en la medicina veterinaria como herramienta de investigación
(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Ciencias Agropecuarias, 2026-02-11) Crespo Huarusha, Carla Omara; Gómez Montesdeoca, Andrea Lizbeth; Galarza Álvarez, Luis Rodrigo
Propolis is a resinous substance produced by bees, rich in phenolic compounds and flavonoids, which have been extensively studied for their biological properties. The objective of this study was to systematically analyze the available scientific evidence on the use and benefits of propolis in veterinary medicine during the period 2014 2024. The methodology was guided by the PRISMA 2020 statement, with a descriptive qualitative approach. Relevant scientific databases such as PubMed, Scopus, Scielo, and Google Scholar were consulted, initially identifying 5,332 publications related to the use of propolis and its biological properties in human and veterinary medicine. After the screening process, eligibility, and application of inclusion and exclusion criteria related to the year of publication, type of study, animal species, and therapeutic use, 30 articles were selected that specifically addressed the antimicrobial, antifungal, antioxidant, and antiviral properties of propolis in veterinary medicine for the final qualitative synthesis. The results demonstrate that propolis has potential for use in productive and companion animals, mainly against Gram-positive bacteria, pathogenic fungi, and dermatological problems. In conclusion, propolis is a promising therapeutic alternative in veterinary medicine; however, its clinical application requires greater standardization in its composition, dosage, and form of administration, as well as the development of controlled experimental studies to support its safe and effective use.
Fermentación ruminal in vitro de subproductos agroindustriales para su uso potencial en la alimentación de ovinos (Ovis orientalis aries)
(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Ciencias Agropecuarias, 2026-02-12) Tapia Guerrero, Melissa Elizabeth; Idrovo González, Julia Mercedes; Haro Haro, Andrés Norberto
The valorization of agro-industrial by-products represents a sustainable alternative to improve the availability of feed resources for small ruminants. The aim of this study was to evaluate the in vitro ruminal fermentation of avocado (Persea americana) and Dominico plantain (Musa paradisiaca, AAB group) and to determine their potential as feed ingredients for sheep. To achieve this, the chemical composition of peel and pulp fractions was characterized, and their degradability and fermentative kinetics were assessed through in vitro incubations, recording gas production and dry matter degradability considering a passage rate of 6%/h. Chemical composition differed significantly between by-products and fractions (P < 0.01). Pulps exhibited higher dry matter contents, whereas plantain peel showed the greatest concentrations of total ashes. Plantain contained higher levels of non-structural carbohydrates, while avocado presented greater ether extract values. In the in vitro fermentation assay, plantain fractions displayed higher potential gas production, greater fractional rates, and shorter lag times (P < 0.01), indicating a faster fermentability. Avocado fractions showed slower rates, likely associated with their higher lipid content. Gas production curves reached their stationary phase at approximately 36h. In conclusion, both by-products possess valuable nutritional attributes; however, plantain exhibited greater fermentative potential, whereas avocado requires more cautious inclusion in sheep diets due to its lipid content.
Generación de moléculas derivadas de anticuerpos de IgY (Gallus gallus domesticus) para la detección antigénica del Protoparvovirus carnívoro 1
(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Ciencias Agropecuarias, 2026-02-12) Castro Quezada, Carlos Guillermo; Salinas Ordoñez, Anahil Nayely; Vallecillo Maza, Antonio Javier
Canine parvovirus 2 (CPV-2), a subspecies of carnivore protoparvovirus 1, is one of the main causes of viral gastroenteritis in dogs, generating high morbidity and mortality rates. The objective of this study was to design, express, and validate recombinant proteins based on IgY antibody fragments derived from Gallus gallus domesticus, specifically αVP2scFv and its mimetic variant αVP2scFvM, aimed at the antigenic detection of CPV-2.The genetic constructs were designed in silico and cloned into expression vectors pET28-SP-MCS-APEc and pET15- MCS-PoBP, which incorporated polystyrene-binding peptides (PoBP) and alkaline phosphatase (APEc) as adhesion domains and colorimetric signal generation. The recombinant proteins were heterologously expressed in Escherichia coli Rosetta 2 (DE3) and purified by immobilized metal affinity chromatography. Functional validation was performed using immunoenzymatic assays, capture ELISA, and Dot blot, using antigenic extracts of VP2, commercial vaccines, and biological samples, demonstrating specific antigen recognition and detectable enzymatic activity in the dot blot. The results showed that the recombinant proteins developed constitute a viable platform for the antigenic diagnosis of CPV-2 in the veterinary field.
Diagnóstico de injuria renal temprana mediante la relación, albúmina- creatinina y densidad urinaria en perros prehipertensos mayores a 7 años de edad
(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Ciencias Agropecuarias, 2026-02-18) Cárdenas Gavilanes, Vanessa Simoné; Carpio Alemán, Fredi Marco
The objective of the present study was to evaluate early renal injury through the albumin-to-creatinine ratio (ACR) and urine specific gravity (USG) in prehypertensive dogs over 7 years of age at the CLINICAN Veterinary Specialty Clinic in the city of Cuenca. This research was designed as a cross-sectional and correlational study, with a sample of 10 dogs, including 5 prehypertensive and 5 normotensive animals. The study aimed to demonstrate that a prehypertensive patient presenting an albumin-to-creatinine ratio (ACR) > 19 mg/g and/or urine specific gravity (USG) < 1.025 during early evaluation is indicative of the onset of renal injury. Urine samples were obtained by cystocentesis and analyzed to determine USG and ACR in both groups. The degree of association between variables was assessed using Pearson’s correlation coefficient for normally distributed data and Spearman’s correlation coefficient for non-parametric distributions. In the Pearson correlation analysis between systolic blood pressure (SBP) and ACR, a value of 0.697 was observed at a significance level of 0.05, indicating a strong and statistically significant positive correlation. In contrast, non-parametric analyses showed no significant associations between SBP and age, body weight, or USG (p > 0.05). Likewise, the relationship between ACR and USG showed a weak and non-significant negative correlation. In conclusion, the findings suggest that ACR represents a sensitive and early biomarker of renal injury in prehypertensive dogs, whereas USG did not demonstrate significant predictive value. This study provides preliminary evidence supporting the need to implement early renal function assessments in dogs.
Influencia hemodinámica de la xilacina y dexmedetomidina en perros sometidos a orquiectomías
(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Ciencias Agropecuarias, 2026-02-12) Narváez Carangui, Lissbeth Katherine; Quizhpi Buestan, Micaela Abigail; Solano León, María Katherine
Anesthetic safety in veterinary medicine depends on maintaining the anesthetic triad: hypnosis, pain relief (analgesia), and muscle relaxation. While alpha-2 adrenergic agonists are widely used in premedication for their strong sedative and pain-relieving effects, their impact on blood flow stability (hemodynamics) requires careful monitoring. This experimental study took place at the Veterinary Teaching Clinic of the University of Cuenca. The goal was to evaluate the physical changes caused by two drugs from this family. A random sample of 40 dogs (n = 40) scheduled for orchiectomy (neutering) was selected and divided into two groups: Group 1 (G1) received premedication with xylazine, while Group 2 (G2) received dexmedetomidine. The protocol includes continuous monitoring of vital signs: heart rate, breathing rate, capillary refill time, and blood pressure. This was done during the preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative phases. Statistical analysis revealed that there was no significant difference (p = >0, 05) between the use of xylazine and dexmedetomidine regarding physiological stability in any of the three phases. Additionally, the Pearson correlation test showed that factors like age and weight had a very low negative relationship with the physical results, and this was not statistically significant (p = >0,05). In conclusion, both drugs offer a similar safety profile for maintaining body balance (homeostasis) during orchiectomy in healthy dogs.

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