Bioquímica y Farmacia-Pregrado

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Evaluación de los cambios fisicoquímicos por deterioro del lactosuero crudo, dulce y ácido de quesería
(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, 2026-02-20) Muñoz Ortega, Emily Alexandra; Sumba Contreras, Layla Elizabeth; Ortiz Ulloa, Silvia Johana
Whey, or cheese whey, is an agro-industrial byproduct generated in large volumes during cheese production, with an estimated yield of nine liters of whey per kilogram of cheese. Despite its high nutritional value, it represents a significant environmental problem due to its high organic load. When discharged untreated into water bodies, it reduces dissolved oxygen levels and negatively affects plants, fish, and soil. In Ecuador, economic and regulatory limitations make it difficult for small producers to implement proper treatment and utilization processes, encouraging informal disposal. Furthermore, the lack of local data on its stability limits its potential applications. In this thesis project, the physicochemical parameters of sweet whey (SW) and acid whey (AW) were evaluated over 15 days under different storage conditions. Both types of whey were produced under laboratory-controlled conditions and stored in three ways: non-sterilized at room temperature (20 °C), non-sterilized and refrigerated (4 °C), and sterilized and refrigerated. The parameters analyzed included pH, titratable acidity, density, total solids, proteins, free amino acids, phosphorus, lactose, fat, ash, and moisture, measured on days 0, 2, 4, 10, 12, and 15. Results showed that room temperature accelerated deterioration, especially in SW, where pH decreased from 6.53 to 3.63 and titratable acidity increased from 9.85 to 87.0 °D. Refrigeration, and particularly sterilization combined with refrigeration, improved stability. In AW, variations were more moderate. These findings provide a technical basis for appropriate preservation and revalorization strategies.
Modelamiento grupal participativo con actores clave para mejorar los entornos escolares nutricionales e inocuidad alimentaria en la comunidad rural de La Asunción-Azuay
(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, 2026-02-20) González Calle, Dayanna Araceli; Ochoa Avilés, María Cristina
Latin American countries face variations in their food systems with widespread access to ultra-processed foods (UPFs), which are linked to rising childhood obesity rates, as well as a lack of access to nutrient-rich foods, leading to nutrient deficiencies in children. However, the lack of food safety poses a problem for achieving nutrition goals, as 40% of children contract foodborne illnesses (FBIs). School environments are important spaces for promoting nutritious and safe health systems that ensure good health in children and adolescents. The following project analyzes the factors that influence healthy and safe school environments in the rural community of Asunción-Azuay through participatory group modeling with key actors and the development of a causal model that represents the factors of unhealthy and unsafe school environments from the perspective of the actors involved. In this way, opportunities were identified to generate sustainable interventions focused on improving school nutrition and food safety. It was important to estimate the consumption of UPF, the availability of safe and nutritious foods, and the potential risks of contamination in the rural study area. The results showed that UPF consumption in school settings coexists with a limited and irregular supply of fresh and nutritionally adequate food. Despite the availability of fresh food, there is a lack of knowledge about proper food handling and storage practices in school cafeterias and local stores. Through the GMB with key stakeholders, structural, economic, and organizational constraints were identified.
Elaboración de base de datos de alimentos con índice glucémico según la Tabla Nutricional del Ecuador
(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, 2026-02-20) Cajamarca Guambaña, Katherine Alejandra; Marquina Barrera, Steven Fernando; Donoso Moscoso, Silvana Patricia
He glycemic index (GI) is a tool that allows foods to be classified according to their effect on blood glucose levels, making it a valuable resource for preventing and managing chronic noncommunicable diseases such as type 2 diabetes, obesity, and metabolic syndrome. However, in Ecuador there is no official database linking commonly consumed foods with their respective GI values, which limits the design of meal plans tailored to local needs. Therefore, the objective of this project is to compile, analyze, and organize available scientific information on the glycemic index of foods listed in Ecuador's Nutritional Table, in order to structure a preliminary database that will be useful for nutritionists, health professionals, and health researchers. The methodology consists of conducting an exhaustive review of scientific literature published between 2002 and 2024, covering indexed articles, international databases, and relevant regional publications. The GI identification was based on foods produced and consumed in Ecuador. As a result, foods were classified according to their preparation method, food groups, and glycemic level, which was low, medium, or high. In conclusion, it is estimated that this project will contribute significantly to decision-making in health, such as in the areas of food, glycemic control, and nutrition, whether in the development of evidence-based dietary guidelines or in future research.
Optimización de un método de formación y cuantificación de biopelículas in vitro en cepas de Staphylococcus aureus meticilino resistente (SARM) aisladas de clínicas odontológicas de la ciudad de Cuenca
(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, 2026-02-18) Barrera Castillo, Maydelin Jasley; Morocho Patiño, Daniela Alexandra; Moscoso Romo, María Paz
Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a pathogen with a high capacity to form biofilms, which promotes its persistence and resistance to disinfection. Optimizing in vitro methods for biofilm formation and quantification allows for the development of reproducible and comparable experimental models to reliably evaluate agents with antibiofilm activity. Objective: To establish a protocol for the in vitro formation and quantification of biofilms in MRSA strains, as well as to determine their biofilm-forming capacity and compare colorimetric methods for their quantification. Methodology: A structured experimental study was developed in three phases. In the first phase, the experimental protocol was established using six MRSA strains (23, 61, 122, 259, 1037, and 1098), and Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923TM and BAA-44TM as positive controls. In the second phase, biofilm-forming capacity was evaluated by quantifying biomass with crystal violet and determining metabolic activity using MTT and resazurin, with spectrophotometric readings. In the third phase, the methods were compared using ANOVA – Tukey statistical analysis to assess reproducibility and correlation between the techniques. Results: The strains exhibited varying biofilm-forming capacity, classified as non-producers, weak producers, moderate producers, and strong producers using the crystal violet method. The MTT assay effectively evaluated the cell viability percentages of each strain. A correlation was observed between the results of both assays, while the resazurin assay was not statistically reproducible. Conclusion: The crystal violet and MTT protocols were reproducible and reliable for biofilm formation and quantification by evaluating biomass and viability, representing a key tool for future research on bacterial behavior and antimicrobial strategies.
Prevalencia de carboxihemoglobina en conductores de buses urbanos pertenecientes a una empresa de transporte público en Cuenca 2025
(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, 2026-02-20) Guarango Sigüenza, Jennifer Paola; Quito Gordillo, Diana Roxana; Narváez Vera, Mónica Alexandra
Environmental exposure to carbon monoxide (CO), mainly from vehicles, can be assessed by measuring carboxyhemoglobin (COHb) levels. This study evaluated COHb levels in urban bus drivers from a company in Cuenca during November and December 2025 and their relationship with exposure time.The study used non-probabilistic voluntary sampling with operational geographic stratification and selected 60 participants, taking blood samples at the final stops when the drivers were resting. To do this, they previously signed an informed consent form and completed a structured survey, analyzing risk factors such as smoking, traffic time, and working hours. The results showed a COHb prevalence of 65% in the drivers evaluated. No non-smoking drivers had normal COHb levels. In this group, 46.67% were classified as having high levels. Among smokers, 35% had normal values for their condition. In the same group, 18.33% were in the high levels category. These findings suggest that urban transportation involves occupational risk. No statistically significant associations with habits, working conditions, or symptoms were identified, although dizziness showed a value close to the significance threshold (p = 0.0609). It is concluded that exposure in transport workers is influenced by individual factors and working conditions, with carboxyhemoglobin values higher than the reference values established by the WHO for non-smokers and the clinically accepted values for smokers.
Comparación del contenido nutricional de recetas de cocina obtenido mediante método directo e indirecto
(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, 2026-02-19) Aguilar Robalino, Yadira Estefania; Carchipulla Lligüisupa, Evelyn Valeria; Ortiz Ulloa, Silvia Johana
This study addresses the need to contrast the nutritional values reported for the recipes in the Food Composition Table of Cuenca, Ecuador, obtained through direct analysis and the indirect calculation method, in order to demonstrate the degree of agreement between both methodologies and evaluate the reliability of the available nutritional information. The nutritional composition of the recipes is determined using the indirect method, applying yield and nutrient retention factors to each ingredient through the Template for Recipe Calculation tool (version 1.1/2021), obtaining estimated values under standardized parameters. Subsequently, these results are compared with those obtained by the direct method through a descriptive analysis based on the calculation of the mean absolute percentage error and scatter plots. The results show a high agreement between both methods for the estimation of energy, water, and total fat, demonstrating the applicability of the indirect method for these components. However, statistically significant discrepancies are detected in carbohydrates and in critical minerals such as sodium, calcium, and potassium, attributable to the difficulty of modeling salt addition, the variability of processed ingredients, and losses due to leaching. It is concluded that the recipe calculation method is a reliable tool for the general estimation of food energy, but its accuracy decreases in the analysis of minerals and complex dishes; therefore, the application of specific correction factors or the use of direct analysis is recommended when accuracy in the mineral profile is required.
Estudio comparativo de la microbiota intestinal entre pacientes con obesidad y sin obesidad
(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, 2026-02-20) Rojas Narváez, Ana Belén; Zamora Burbano, Zulma Beatriz
Obesity is a multifactorial chronic disease with high global prevalence and one of the main public health challenges, particularly in Latin America, where its incidence continues to rise. Although it has traditionally been associated with sedentary behavior, excessive consumption of hypercaloric foods, and lifestyle changes, these factors do not fully explain its metabolic complexity. In recent years, the gut microbiota has emerged as a key component in the regulation of energy metabolism and inflammatory processes linked to obesity. Intestinal dysbiosis may increase the capacity for dietary energy extraction, promote fatty acid storage in adipose tissue, alter intestinal permeability, and induce low-grade systemic inflammation, thereby contributing to the development of metabolic alterations. The aim of this study was to conduct a systematic review of the scientific literature to identify, compare, and analyze differences in gut microbiota composition and diversity between individuals with obesity and normal-weight subjects. The methodology followed PRISMA guidelines and included studies published between 2015 and 2025 in human populations, applying rigorous inclusion and exclusion criteria. The analyzed evidence shows that obesity is associated with significant alterations in bacterial composition at the genus level, with a higher relative abundance of Lactobacillus, Ruminococcus, Blautia, Collinsella, Dorea, and Enterobacteriaceae, whereas normal-weight individuals show a predominance of metabolically protective genera such as Faecalibacterium, Akkermansia, Roseburia, and Bacteroides, suggesting their potential value as biomarkers and therapeutic targets.
Impacto de los medios de contraste en la función renal: Revisión bibliográfica sistematizada sobre mecanismos, biomarcadores y factores de riesgo asociados
(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, 2026-02-19) Calle Santander, Joe Oldeir; Reibán Alberca, Damaris Nicole; Narváez Vera, Mónica Alexandra
Contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) is a prevalent cause of acute kidney injury resulting from the use of imaging studies. The aim of this study was to analyze the evidence from the last 10 years on CIN, its mechanisms, biomarkers, and risk factors through a systematic review. A systematic literature review was conducted in databases such as PubMed, Scopus, ScienceDirect, and Dialnet, including original articles published between 2015 and 2025 in adult populations. After excluding systematic reviews and pediatric studies, 26 articles were selected from prospective studies, retrospective studies, and clinical trials. The results showed a variable incidence of CIN according to the risk profile: while in low-risk patients it is 0.9%, this figure can increase to more than 40% in critically ill patients. Furthermore, it was found that there is a low probability of developing CIN when administering low-osmolarity contrast media. Advanced age, diabetes mellitus, and the volume of contrast medium administered were identified as risk factors. Creatinine was also confirmed as a late biomarker, which contrasts with emerging biomarkers such as NGAL and cystatin C that detect tubular damage between 2 and 6 hours post-contrast. The evidence suggests that the renal impact depends on the volume of contrast medium administered and comorbidities, making research into emerging biomarkers and hydration protocols key strategies for prevention.
Perfil proteico de la harina de grillo Gryllus assimilis bajo diferentes condiciones de crianza
(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, 2026-02-18) Carpio Ortiz, Juan Francisco; Ochoa Guaraca, Viviana de los Ángeles; Ortiz Ulloa, Silvia Johana
Globally, it is estimated that by 2050 there will be 9.8 billion inhabitants. Given this rapid increase, new questions arise about how to meet the food needs of the population and how to combat protein-energy malnutrition with a low impact on the environment. The purpose of this study was to determine the total protein and amino acid profile of Jamaican field cricket or silent cricket (Gryllus assimilis) meal from samples taken from experimental breeding farms. Total protein composition was determined using the Kjeldahl method, and amino acids were characterized and quantified using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with fluorescence detection (FLD). The results showed that the samples, regardless of rearing conditions, had a high protein concentration (48.4% ± 4.3%) and were a high-quality protein source due to the presence of all essential amino acids. On the other hand, no significant differences were found in protein content and amino acid profile between the different diets evaluated, ruling out the option of identifying the most optimal rearing condition at the nutritional level.
Péptidos β-amiloides y proteína tau fosforilada, como biomarcadores sanguíneos útiles de diagnóstico temprano en Alzheimer. Una revisión Sistemática
(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, 2026-02-18) Carpio Guillermo, Erick Sebastián; Guamán Sánchez, María Fernanda
Alzheimer’s disease is the leading cause of dementia worldwide, and its early diagnosis remains a major clinical challenge due to the invasive nature, high cost, and limited accessibility of conventional diagnostic methods such as cerebrospinal fluid analysis and advanced neuroimaging techniques. In this context, blood-based biomarkers have emerged as a promising alternative for the early detection of underlying neuropathological processes. This systematic review aimed to analyze the diagnostic utility of blood-based β-amyloid peptides and phosphorylated tau protein, compared with cerebrospinal fluid biomarkers, for the early diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease. The review was conducted in accordance with the PRISMA 2020 guidelines and included experimental studies published between 2015 and 2025 retrieved from PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, ScienceDirect, SpringLink and Dialnet Plasma biomarkers such as the Aβ42/Aβ40 ratio, p-tau181, p-tau217, and p-tau231 were evaluated, along with the analytical methods employed and their diagnostic performance. The findings indicate that plasma phosphorylated tau biomarkers, particularly p-tau217, exhibit high diagnostic sensitivity and specificity, with performance comparable to cerebrospinal fluid biomarkers. In contrast, plasma β-amyloid biomarkers demonstrated moderate diagnostic accuracy, which improved when incorporated into combined diagnostic models. In conclusion, blood-based phosphorylated tau biomarkers represent a promising, minimally invasive, and clinically feasible tool to enhance the early diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease, although further standardization and multicenter validation are required prior to widespread clinical implementation.
Uso de la Metformina como coadyuvante en la reducción de la inflamación en enfermedades crónicas: revisión bibliográfica narrativa
(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, 2026-02-19) Villa Lucero, Graciela Abigail; Zhicay Pérez, Janneth Estefanía; Ochoa Castro, Maritza Raphaela
Low-grade chronic inflammation is a central pathophysiological component of various noncommunicable chronic diseases, contributing to progressive tissue damage and the development of systemic complications. Metformin, widely known for its use as a hypoglycemic agent in the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus, has demonstrated antiinflammatory properties that may be useful as a complementary therapeutic strategy. To evaluate its effectiveness, a narrative literature review was conducted on the role of metformin in reducing inflammation in chronic diseases. Seven preclinical studies were analyzed, classified as medium- and high-quality according to the ARRIVE guidelines, in which a significant reduction in pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6), oxidative stress, tissue damage, and fibrotic markers was observed. These effects were mainly mediated by the activation of the AMPK pathway and the inhibition of NF-κB, supporting its therapeutic potential beyond its traditional use.
Saponinas de Chenopodium quinoa como emulgente biodegradable aplicado a una crema limpiadora facial
(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, 2026-02-18) Loja Morocho, Evelyn Geomayra; Morocho Sibri, Marco Antonio; Wilches Arizábala, Isabel María
Many pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and agricultural products use emulsifiers or surfactants as excipients. Most of these products are synthetic and present issues related to toxicity and lack of biodegradability. In contrast, natural compounds such as saponins—secondary metabolites found in plants—also exhibit emulsifying properties. Due to the environmental and economic impacts associated with synthetic emulsifiers, this research focused on evaluating natural alternatives as potential replacements. Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa) is a plant cultivated in the Andean region of Ecuador, making it an accessible raw material from which saponins can be obtained for the development of cosmetic products. Therefore, saponins extracted from Chenopodium quinoa were used at different concentrations (0.5% to 1.5%) to determine their ability to replace synthetic emulsifiers such as sodium lauryl sulfate. Zero-time stability tests were conducted, including evaluations of syneresis, droplet size, pH, and spreadability. The formulation containing 1% quinoa saponins showed homogeneous dispersion, appropriate droplet size, absence of coalescence, and absence of syneresis. Therefore, it can be concluded that this formulation would allow the production of cosmetic products free from toxic effects and the disadvantages associated with synthetic emulsifiers.
Verificación del cumplimiento de protocolos de limpieza mediante el control microbiológico de superficies vivas e inertes en la cafetería de la Clínica “San Juan Bautista” del Valle
(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, 2026-02-19) Calle Uzhca, Christian Rosendo; Jiménez Herráez, Gabriela Noemí
Foodborne illnesses (FBIs) can pose a significant risk in hospital settings, as inadequate handling and hygiene of food intended for hospitalized patients can contribute to the development of healthcare-associated infections. This situation underscores the importance of ensuring food safety through the proper application of cleaning protocols and microbiological control of surfaces in food preparation and service areas. This study aimed to evaluate the degree of microbial contamination on live and inert surfaces in the cafeteria of the "San Juan Bautista" Clinic, located in El Valle, Cuenca, Ecuador, in order to verify compliance with cleaning protocols. An observational and analytical study with a quantitative approach was carried out, in which the microbial load of total coliforms and Staphylococcus aureus was determined as indicators of contamination, using as a reference the microbiological limits established in the Technical Guide for the Microbiological Analysis of Surfaces in Contact with Food and Beverages of Peru. The analysis was performed on 13 surfaces over six days, with duplicate tests conducted using Petrifilm plates. The results showed that inert surfaces met the established parameters for total coliforms during the study period. Regarding live surfaces, compliance with the permitted limits for Staphylococcus aureus was observed; however, on certain days, total coliform levels exceeded the established limits. These findings highlight the need to strengthen hygiene practices among food handlers in order to optimize food safety conditions.
Valor predictivo de los marcadores tumorales CA 15.3 y CEA en el control y seguimiento de pacientes con cáncer de mama en el Hospital de Especialidades José Carrasco Arteaga en el período 2016-2019
(Universidad de Cuenca, 2022-10-19) Sinche Montaleza, Bryan Rómulo; Aucapiña Guamán, Juan Diego; Neira Molina, Vivian Alejandra
Background: Breast cancer is one of the most frequent pathologies in women, with more than 2.3 million cases in 2020 and an incidence rate of 132 cases per 100 000 inhabitants. It is the second most frequent malignant neoplasm in the female population of Cuenca, with the highest incidence rate in the period 2010-2014, according to statistics from SOLCA, Cuenca. CA 15.3 and CEA have been found to contribute significantly in the control, follow-up and prognosis of the disease. Objective: To analyze and compare CA 15.3 and CEA markers to evaluate the response to treatment and follow-up of breast cancer in patients attending the Hospital de Especialidades José Carrasco Arteaga in the period 2016-2019. Methodology: The present investigation is an evaluation of the efficacy of a clinical test in the control and follow-up of patients with breast cancer. Data were collected from the patients' medical records according to the inclusion criteria, using the MIS AS 400 system and tabulated in Excel. Subsequently, the data were analyzed by descriptive and inferential statistics using R Studio, IBM SPSS V22 and Microsoft Excel. Results: The most frequent type of cancer is invasive ductal carcinoma (62.58%) and the most common stage is IIB (23.13%). CA 15.3 has an SE: (0.81), SP: (0.93), PPV: (0.81) and NPV: (0.93), while CEA has an SE: (0.75), SP: (0.87), PPV: (0.60) and NPV: (0.93), CA15.3-CEA has an SE: (0.80), SP: (0.97), PPV: (0.80) and NPV: (0.97). The cut-off points were: CA 15.3 (29.41 U/mL), CEA (2.71 ng/mL) and jointly (19.84 U/mL and 2.58 ng/mL). It was established that there is a relationship between the concentration of the tumor marker and the presence of metastasis (p<0.05). Likewise, the existence of a relationship between stage and survival rate was confirmed (p<0.05) and a relationship between the increase in concentration and stage was evidenced. Conclusions: It was determined that CA 15.3 has higher SE, SP, PPV and NPV than CEA. Finally, the association CA15.3-CEA improves the parameters and justifies its use in clinical practice to evaluate the treatment, follow-up and prognosis of the patient.
Control de calidad del extracto seco de desmodium molliculum
(Universidad de Cuenca, 2025-09-08) Guayara Granda, Samantha Michelle; Romero Bermejo, Tania Maribel; Peñaherrera Wilches, María Eugenia
Desmodium molliculum, known in Ecuador as “hierba del infante,” is a plant widely used in traditional Andean medicine for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antibacterial properties. This study aimed to evaluate the quality of the dry extract obtained from the aerial parts of the plant through the determination of physicochemical, microbiological, and qualitative phytochemical parameters. The plant material was collected in the province of Azuay and processed by percolation, followed by defatting with n-hexane and lyophilization. The physicochemical parameters obtained (moisture: 0.95%; total ash: 4.11%; acid-insoluble ash: 1.36%; water- insoluble ash: 0.90%) were found to be within the limits established by international pharmacopoeias. The foam index was low, indicating a scarce presence of saponins. The microbiological analysis confirmed the absence of Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, molds, and yeasts, and revealed an acceptable load of mesophilic aerobes, in compliance with WHO standards for herbal products. The results support the quality of the dry extract of D. molliculum, positioning it as a safe and suitable raw material for the development of phytotherapeutic products.
Seguridad y eficacia del cenobamato como coadyuvante en el tratamiento de la epilepsia focal
(Universidad de Cuenca, 2025-09-08) Calderón Pineda, Paula Mayerly; Guillén Ávila, Paola Vanessa; Ochoa Castro, Maritza Raphaela
Epilepsy is a disorder in which the activity of nerve cells in the brain is interrupted, manifesting with recurrent seizures that are classified into localized and focal seizures, therefore focal epilepsy will be analyzed, which is a chronic neurological condition that affects the quality of life of millions of people in the world. Despite advances in the development of pharmacological treatments, approximately a quarter of patients do not respond adequately to conventional antiepileptic drugs. Consequently, the safety and efficacy of cenobamate as an adjunctive treatment in patients with focal epilepsy is evaluated through a literature review with eight clinical trials classified as high quality studies according to the CONSORT Guide, which showed cenobamate to be safe and effective for the treatment of focal epilepsy compared to a concomitant drug and a placebo, dizziness, somnolence and fatigue being the most common and unavoidable adverse events and with an efficacy rate of more than 50% in terms of seizure reduction.
Aplicación del sistema de categorización LanguaLTM como herramienta de estandarización descriptiva de la “tabla composición de alimentos de Cuenca, Ecuador”
(Universidad de Cuenca, 2025-09-03) Freire Benenaula, Sofía Isabel; Toalongo Morquecho, Juan Andres; Ortiz Ulloa, Silvia Johana; Saquicela Carpio, Jorge Eduardo
The LanguaLTM tool is a thesaurus developed to classify and describe different types of food products. It is used worldwide and enables the exchange of food composition data between different regions of the world. This thesis work is oriented towards the application of the LanguaLTM categorization system in order to standardize foods of Andean origin that are presented in the 2018 edition Food Composition Table of Cuenca, Ecuador. In addition, a standard protocol was developed for the categorization of foods of local origin, facilitating the coding of 129 foods. The results obtained evidenced limitations in some foods of traditional Ecuadorian cuisine and regional food patterns were found. Systematization facilitates the communication of data between platforms in an international manner, promoting food sovereignty and optimizing the creation of food policies. The implementation of this methodology improves the efficient and accurate interpretation of nutritional information in the country.
Desarrollo de una estrategia participativa de capacitación sobre inocuidad alimentaria para vendedores ambulantes en la ciudad de Cuenca
(Universidad de Cuenca, 2025-09-03) Samaniego Loaiza, Luis Alfredo; Ortiz Ulloa, Silvia Johana
Street food vending, predominantly in developing countries, has been linked to inadequate hygiene and handling practices that contribute to the risk of contamination by pathogens and foodborne diseases. In the local context, street vending represents an accessible economic alternative to unemployment. This activity faces limitations such as the lack of basic infrastructure and knowledge of good food safety practices. In this degree project, the design and implementation of a participatory training strategy on food safety for street vendors in the city of Cuenca is proposed. The proposed strategy included an audiovisual component based on a Massive Open Online Course (MOOC), previously developed by the Department of Biosciences, University of Cuenca, and the Consortium for Food Safety in Ecuador. In addition, discussion spaces were included to share experiences and put the theoretical content into practice. This work is considered as a training pilot, which will allow to explore the acceptance of this training strategy and, in the future, to propose multidisciplinary solutions to the problem of lack of food safety in the population of street vendors for their social and economic welfare.
Análisis de la composición de la quinua cruda, cocida y tostada
(Universidad de Cuenca, 2025-09-04) Mejía Quizhpi, Liliana Elizabeth; Pillajo Pérez, Cristina Raquel; Ortiz Ulloa, Silvia Johana
Quinoa is a pseudocereal considered a superfood due to its high nutritional content and bioactive compounds. The objective of this undergraduate thesis was to evaluate the nutritional composition of quinoa sold in the city of Cuenca in its raw, cooked, and toasted forms. Samples of raw quinoa were collected from different points of sale following a random sampling method. A composite sample was prepared, and from this, a portion was taken to be subjected to cooking in water and another to a toasting process, both at a laboratory level. In the three types of quinoa samples, the proximate composition (total carbohydrates, total lipids, total proteins, moisture, and ash) was determined in triplicate. Additionally, the mineral composition was determined by Inductively Coupled Plasma-Optical Emission Spectrometry (ICP-OES). The results obtained showed that cooked quinoa presented the lowest values in ash content (0.5%), fats (1.9%), and proteins (4.7%), while moisture increased from 12.0 to 78.6% due to the absorption of cooking water, causing a loss of minerals by leaching. In toasted quinoa, the mineral content increased, with Ca showing the highest increment (1.3 times). In conclusion, the composition of quinoa can be affected by the cooking process, while in the toasted form it presents a slight increase in proteins, carbohydrates, and minerals due to the drying of the grain, which is why this preparation is the most recommended for a daily diet.
Identificación de la presencia de ácido(s) aristolóquico(s) en la planta Zaragoza de los cantones Sucúa y Macas, provincia de Morona Santiago
(Universidad de Cuenca, 2025-09-02) Carchipulla Llivichuzhca, Hernán Aníbal; Orellana Ordoñez, Luisa Maribel; Mora Bravo, Lorena Viviana
Traditional Ecuadorian medicine has used plants of the genus Aristolochia spp., known locally as "Zaragoza," for their therapeutic properties for generations. However, studies warn of the presence of aristolochic acids (AA-I and AA-II), nephrotoxic and carcinogenic compounds in these plants, which pose a health risk. This study qualitatively determined the presence of these compounds in leaf, stem, and bark samples from Zaragoza plants collected in the cantons of Sucúa and Macas, Morona Santiago province, using traditional extraction techniques (infusion and decoction) and thin-layer chromatography (TLC) analysis. The results show Rf values of 0.5–0.6 for AA-I and 0.4–0.5 for AA-II, with a blue green color under UV light at 366 nm, confirming their presence in 14 of 18 samples by decoction and 9 of 18 by infusion. The results indicated that the decoction was more effective than the infusion for AA extraction, likely due to the prolonged heating, which may have facilitated the release of these compounds. The plant bark presented greater chromatographic intensity, indicating higher AA concentrations. These findings highlight the risk of continued use of Aristolochia in traditional medicine and underscore the need to regulate its consumption and educate communities about its toxicity, contributing to a safer use of these plants.

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