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Los primeros pasos de la biología en México

Ciencia Distancia・46 minutes read

Maria del Consuelo Cuevas Cardona discusses the historical development of biology in Mexico, highlighting key figures and milestones in the field's progression. Despite challenges like political interference and discrimination, significant contributions were made by researchers, leading to the establishment of research centers and the promotion of science literacy in the country.

Insights

  • Santiago Ramón y Cajal's conference marked the first mention of cell theory in Mexican newspapers in the 19th century, highlighting the early influence of prominent figures in shaping scientific discourse in the region.
  • Alfonso Luis Herrera López's dedication to studying medicinal plants for medical purposes and advocating for the protection of natural enemies of agricultural pests underscores the intersection of biology, conservation, and practical applications, showcasing a holistic approach to scientific research and environmental stewardship.

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Summary

00:00

"Evolution of Biology in Mexico"

  • The talk is a collaboration between the Economic Culture Fund and the DGDC, focusing on promoting science literacy.
  • The speaker, María del Consuelo Cuevas Cardona, is a prominent biologist and author of "The First Steps of Biology in Mexico."
  • Biology's introduction in Mexico faced conflicts globally due to the emergence of new paradigms.
  • Santiago Ramón y Cajal's conference marked the first mention of cell theory in Mexican newspapers in the 19th century.
  • Gustavo Gozdawa wrote about Darwin's theory of natural selection in newspapers, sparking debates.
  • Justo and Santiago Sierra Méndez were key figures discussing evolution in Mexican newspapers.
  • The term "biology" first appeared in educational programs at the National Preparatory School, led by Gabino Barreda.
  • Alfonso Herrera Fernández, a naturalist, improved collections and formed the Antonio Alzate scientific society.
  • The first biology academy was established, focusing on topics like evolution and cell theory.
  • Alfonso Luis Herrera López, son of Alfonso Herrera Fernández, wrote "Notions of Biology" and studied the origin of life, facing challenges in teaching biology due to abstractness.

19:17

Alfonso Herrera: Pioneer in Medicinal Plants & Conservation

  • Alfonso Luis Herrera was involved in the study of medicinal plants and their chemical compounds for medical purposes, which were later applied in animals and humans.
  • He worked at a research center focusing on medicinal plants and later became the director of the Agricultural Parasitology Commission.
  • Herrera emphasized the importance of natural enemies of agricultural pests over chemical pesticides, promoting the protection of birds and other animals that prey on pests.
  • Due to political interference, the Agricultural Parasitology Commission was closed, leading Herrera to resign and focus on teaching at a normal school.
  • He was appointed as the director of the Museum of Natural History, where he opened a biology section and dedicated showcases to evolution evidence and plasmogeny experiments.
  • Herrera established the Directorate of Biological Studies, which conducted extensive research on nature conservation, exploration, and protection of endangered species.
  • He played a crucial role in protecting species like the sea elephant and Bighorn Sheep, leading to recognition and awards for his conservation efforts.
  • Despite facing criticism for his research, Herrera continued his studies on plasmogeny, which were recognized in scientific circles, particularly in the field of the origin of life.
  • The Directorate of Biological Studies was eventually closed in 1929, prompting Herrera to continue his work in his personal laboratory until his death in September 1942.
  • His groundbreaking experiments, including the publication of an article in Science in 1942 detailing his findings on amino acids and starch-like compounds, solidified his legacy in the scientific community.

37:38

Significant Contributions to Biology Research in Mexico

  • The National Geological Institute and its paleontological studies are significant in the field of biology.
  • The Geological Institute, established in 1888, and the National Bacteriological Institute, founded in 1905, played crucial roles in biological research.
  • The National Bacteriological Institute focused on studying bacteria and pests in humans and animals, producing sera and vaccines.
  • Ester Luque Muñoz, the first woman in a Mexican research center, made notable contributions to biological studies.
  • Fernando Ferrari Pérez and his team's work in the geographic exploratory commission contributed to biology's development.
  • Enrique Beltrán and Maximino Martínez, students of Alfonso Luis Herrera, made significant achievements in Protosa studies and nature conservation.
  • Maximino Martínez, a botanist, discovered the Mexican fagus tree and continued his research independently.
  • The closure of the Biological Studies Directorate led to the establishment of the UNAM Biology Institute under Isaac Ochoterena's leadership.
  • Women researchers like Elia Bravo Olis and her sister Margarita Bravo made valuable contributions to biology despite facing discrimination.
  • Elia Bravo Olis, a renowned researcher, worked at the National School of Biological Sciences and the Biology Institute until her passing.

56:15

"Science Contest Winners Announced, New Book Released"

  • The 18th contest "Let's Read Science for Everyone" has closed, receiving around 15,000 works in Spanish for review.
  • The next contest, the 19th edition, will include a book by Dr. Cuevas, set to be published by the end of the year.
  • Two books, "Falling in Love and Lovesickness" by Alberto Orlandini and "From Zero to Infinity: A Tour of the Mathematical Universe" by Pablo Hamster, are being given away in a session.
  • To win one of the books, participants must answer a question about two pioneers of biology in Mexico and their contributions.
  • Dr. Cuevas discusses his interest in the history of biology, sparked by a scientific commission in Pachuca in 1864.
  • He emphasizes the importance of patience and research in uncovering historical documents related to biology.
  • Dr. Cuevas believes that biology in Mexico is well-represented with research centers in various states, focusing on different branches of the field.
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