Repositorio Institucional Universidad de Cuenca
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Recent Submissions
Fog in the Andean Páramo: measurements, dynamics, and its influence on soil hydrology and evapotranspiration processes
(Universidad de Cuenca, 2022-09-15) Berrones Guapulema, Gina Marcela; Célleri Alvear, Rolando Enrique
The páramo ecosystem is characterized by a very moist climate and the continuous presence of fog and low-intensity rainfall. The most important páramo feature is the high water regulation capacity which in part might be related to the high frequency of fog and low-intensity rainfall (drizzle).
Therefore, it is essential to understand the hydrological processes that are linked to the ecology of the páramo. This study aimed the following three objectives: (1) to assess fog water estimates derived from three different types of fog gauges, and from them to understand its temporal dynamics and the importance of fog to annual rainfall; (2) to quantify the contribution of fog water deposition to soil moisture; and (3) to analyze the impact of fog on evapotranspiration rates, under different weather conditions (clear, foggy and rainy). Findings of this study show that fog occurs at very low intensities (0.2 mm h-1) reporting events of short term (<3 hours) at wind velocities below 4 m s-1. Most of the time fog appears combined with other type of precipitation (i.e. drizzle, light rain or rain) with fog tending to be more intense in the early morning, and at night. On average, daily fog amounts 1.37 mm. Overall, fog and drizzle are the major water sources to páramo vegetation, especially during late night-time and early mornings, when evaporation is low. The fog water deposition shows that only 4.5% of fog reaches the soil, contributing to soil moisture changes rather low (0.1-0.2 mm), whilst the combination of fog with low-intensity rainfall generate a higher contribution on soil moisture (as high as 4.3 mm). These events are potentially important for both soil moisture and stream flow, because of their long duration and high total amount per-event. Daily evapotranspiration rates are reduced by 43% due to the presence of mixed conditions (fog + lowintensity rainfall) compared with clear conditions (no fog and no rainfall). The net radiation is reduced by 9.2% during foggy conditions (only fog) mainly because its early morning hours occurrence is higher, and when solar radiation peaks fog occurrence is lower. While, during mixed conditions the net radiation is reduced by 33%. At the same time as less humid periods were reported, evapotranspiration was also low; suggesting that fog and drizzle presence can inhibit transpiration, limit water loss by evaporation and also could alleviate water stress.
Consumo de alimentos ultraprocesados y su relación con la inseguridad alimentaria, estrés percibido y calidad de la dieta en mujeres gestantes de 19 a 45 años que acuden a Centros de Salud Tipo B y C de la ciudad de CuencaEcuador, 2025
(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, 2026-02-27) Cabrera Tapia, Jessenia Anabel; Abril Ulloa, Sandra Victoria
Background: The increased consumption of ultra-processed foods in recent years has contributed to overweight, obesity, and different chronic diseases, especially during pregnancy. In Ecuador, many pregnant women experience malnutrition due to both low and excessive calorie intake, which increases the risk of complications for the mother and the fetus and can affect diet quality during pregnancy. Objective: To determine the relationship between the consumption of ultra-processed foods, food insecurity, perceived stress, and diet quality in pregnant women aged 19 to 45 years in the city of Cuenca. Methods: This was a crosssectional and analytical study conducted in Type B and C Health Centers in Cuenca. The sample included 305 pregnant women. Surveys and questionnaires were used to assess the consumption of ultra-processed foods, food insecurity, perceived stress, and diet quality. Results: The population was mainly composed of single, unemployed women with basic educational levels. Pre-pregnancy nutritional status showed malnutrition due to excess, with a predominance of overweight and obesity. In addition, 48.9% presented food insecurity, 99% reported high perceived stress, and 55.4% required changes in diet quality. A significant association was found between the consumption of ultra-processed foods, food insecurity, perceived stress, and diet quality. Conclusion: The consumption of ultra-processed foods in pregnant women is related to food insecurity, perceived stress, and lower diet quality.
Diseño de una interfaz de una aplicación móvil para fomentar la lectura de literatura ecuatoriana
(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Artes, 2026-02-26) Lamas Ilvis, Tamara Emilia; Santos León, Ernesto Antonio
The present project focuses on the creation of the graphical user interface of a mobile application aimed at promoting the reading of Ecuadorian literature. The application addresses key factors that encourage reading, such as personalization, learning about the historical contexts that support a deeper understanding of literary works, questionnaires designed to reinforce acquired knowledge, and a social component that enables interaction among users.
To achieve this, Jesse James Garrett’s methodology was applied. During the initial strategy phase, the topic was examined in depth and strategies to promote reading were explored. In the scope phase, content requirements and functional specifications were defined.
Subsequently, the interaction design was developed, followed by the creation of low- and mid- fidelity wireframes. Finally, the graphic system was designed and applied to the prototype screens, after which usability testing was conducted. The result was an interactive prototype designed in Figma for Literatura.ec, which is the name of the application.
Propuesta interiorista del espacio de uso mixto Qala (taller - cafetería) basado en la iconografía cañari y el uso de materiales locales. Cuenca - Ecuador
(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Artes, 2026-02-24) Guzmán Jimbo, Camila Sofía; Lozano Guamán, Flor Margarita
The degree project focuses on the interior design of the Qala mixed-use space, located in the city of Cuenca, Ecuador, with the aim of changing its use from a bar-restaurant to a ceramics workshop-café, responding to the functional, cultural, and spatial needs of the place. For its development, a theoretical analysis was carried out on mixed-use spaces, ceramic workshops, and cafeterias, as well as a study of Cañari iconography and the use of local materials, which allowed for the establishment of conceptual bases that support the proposal from a cultural and functional point of view. A diagnosis of the current state of the property was carried out using planimetric surveys, photographic records, comfort analysis, and a study of similar references, allowing us to identify spatial and functional problems that were resolved through a new formal and functional approach. The interior design proposal is based on the symbolism of the Cañari mountains and the application of Japandi and ancestral styles, incorporating materials, colors, furniture, and lighting to create a functional space that provides a sensory experience linked to the craft process. Overall, the project demonstrates how interior design can enhance ceramic work and create mixed spaces that are both functional and culturally significant in the urban context of Cuenca.
Propuesta de rediseño interior de la tienda LUCANI como comercio boutique – atelier. Cuenca-Ecuador
(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Artes, 2026-02-27) Cañizares Herrera, Angélica Elizabeth; Orellana Ordoñez, Diana Catalina
The redesign of the LUCANI Boutique, located in the historic center of the city of Cuenca, has the main objective of transforming it into a boutique – atelier. This thesis project is based on an existing diagnosis assessment, which proposes a strategic spatial distribution, as well as furniture arrangement, criteria for the selection and placement of garments, and the integration of materials, lighting system and signage, all of these elements contribute to a smooth circulation and ensures an ergonomic and functional space that responds to the brand’s current needs and it is specific operational requirements. Establishing a strategic vision for the LUCANI brand is not only reflected in the functionality and spatial aesthetics, but also in enhancing the shopping experience through an atelier space that provides additional services to the consumer and offers a distinctive experience, strengthening the company is strategic operations with an aesthetic approach and a powerful rebranding of brand recognition.
