Automation of knowledge-based shared services and centers of expertise

Automation of Knowledge-Based services is the natural evolution of Robotic Process Automation (RPA), fueled by new technologies, often categorized as Cognitive Automation (CA). The purposes of this research are to (1) explore the Expertise Shared Services and Centers of Expertise functions where automation of knowledge-based processes is most suitable and (2) understand the value drivers and primary tactical challenges in adopting a strategy for automating Knowledge-Based expertise services. In addition to a literature review conducted, we conducted in-depth interviews with selected executives and experts. We developed case studies to better understand how Software Bots can be deployed for automating Knowledge-Based Expertise Services in organizations when they transition to automation of knowledge-driven processes. Results of our research indicate that the majority of executives and experts are aware of the need for automating Knowledge-Based Expertise Services but most remain unclear regarding its value or how to invest in adoption of this new trend

Antifungal activity of essential oils against azole-resistant and azole-susceptible Candida glabrata strains vaginal isolates

Candida glabrata is an opportunistic pathogen, associated with endocarditis, meningitis and disseminated disease and also with complicated vaginitis. Essential oils derived from aromatic plants are known in traditional medicine as antimicrobial agents and have antifungal properties. The aim of this work was to evaluate whether the twelve tested essential oils (tea tree, laurel, anise, basil, bergamot, lavender, mint, oregano, grapefruit, rosemary, winter savory and ginger) could have a transverse effect on C. glabrata sensitive strains but, above all, on strains resistant to the three main used azole antifungals (clotrimazole, fluconazole, itraconazole). For this reason, different strains of C. glabrata, vaginal isolated, were characterized (disk diffusion assay, MIC) with respect to their response to such antifungals. Electron microscopy analyses were performed to examine in depth cellular damages. Subsequently, we wanted to evaluate the effect of the oils also on human cells in order to estimate their potential cytotoxicity. Oregano and winter savory were the two most effective essential oils inducing: growth inhibition, cell damage of C. glabrata strains (both sensitive and resistant to azole antifungal drugs) and medium-high level of toxicity against human keratinocytes. The results of this work support the research for new alternatives or complementary therapies against vaginal candidiasis.The accepted manuscript in pdf format is listed with the files at the bottom of this page. The presentation of the authors' names and (or) special characters in the title of the manuscript may differ slightly between what is listed on this page and what is listed in the pdf file of the accepted manuscript; that in the pdf file of the accepted manuscript is what was submitted by the author

2020 Dataset on local gambling regulations in Italy

The dataset provides the complete enumeration of gambling policies implemented by Italian Municipalities between 2003 and 2021. The dataset comprises information on all municipalities existing in 2017 and following years (thus considering also merging). The following variables are available: Municipality ISTAT Code (ID), Municipality Name (Name) Province, Region, Researcher, and a series of variables identifying the number and the type of rulings adopted ('regolamento', 'ordinanza' and 'delibera'). The rulings are distinguished between identified and downloaded or only identified (because the document is no longer available). Additional variables describe municipal activism with other administrative acts (Anti-gambling Manifesto, events, projects or tax reductions). Overall, the dataset comprises 8031 units

2020 Dataset on local gambling regulations in Italy

The dataset provides the complete enumeration of gambling policies implemented by Italian Municipalities between 2003 and 2021. The dataset comprises information on all municipalities existing in 2017 and following years (thus considering also merging). The following variables are available: Municipality ISTAT Code (ID), Municipality Name (Name) Province, Region, Researcher, and a series of variables identifying the number and the type of rulings adopted (“regolamento”, “ordinanza” and “delibera”). The rulings are distinguished between identified and downloaded or only identified (because the document is no longer available). Additional variables describe municipal activism with other administrative acts (Anti-gambling Manifesto, events, projects or tax reductions). Overall, the dataset comprises 8031 units