Daniela Pacella

University of Plymouth, University of Naples Federico II

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About

Daniela Pacella’s research bridges two seemingly distinct worlds: the computational modeling of human emotions and the advancement of minimally invasive surgical techniques. Her work in affective computing explores how emotions, grounded in evolutionary theory, serve as fundamental drivers for adaptive behavior. In her 2017 paper, “Basic emotions and adaptation. A computational and evolutionary model” (29 citations), Pacella proposes that affective states are not mere byproducts but crucial mechanisms for action selection, helping natural and artificial agents navigate ancestrally relevant challenges. This computational framework offers a novel lens for designing autonomous agents that learn and adapt through emotional cues. Simultaneously, Pacella contributes to surgical innovation. Her 2022 multicenter study, “Robotic versus laparoscopic transabdominal preperitoneal (TAPP) approaches to bilateral hernia repair” (29 citations), uses propensity score matching to compare robotic and laparoscopic techniques. This work provides rigorous evidence for the efficacy of robotic-assisted surgery, highlighting its potential advantages in complex bilateral repairs. By integrating computational models of emotion with practical surgical outcomes, Pacella exemplifies a rare interdisciplinary approach, advancing both theoretical understanding of adaptive systems and tangible improvements in patient care. Her dual focus underscores a commitment to translating evolutionary principles into real-world applications.