***** Vol.4 Chap.19 The third data set *****
Since school was out, JB devoted all her energy to the new dataset from Lovelace. Being not familiar with mass spectrometer data, it took a while to get comfortable with the spikes and the format of the data.
But JB worked tirelessly comparing the dataset from inmates with that from the siblings. For days, she worked with the data with no success.
Frustrated and seeing her hopes of a Nobel price slipping away, she was at a total loss where to proceed next.
Just then, she got a phone call from Dr. Schmidtiz to meet again.
With a lackluster response, she agreed to meet at the usual time and place.
After ordering their drinks, Dr. Schmidtiz was all smiles.
“JB, I got good news for you.”
“I am ready for any good news.” JB answered, visibly still dejected and frustrated.
“Last time you mentioned about using mass spectrometer readings. I went back and checked with the resident scientists and they were all excited about the idea. So, today, we have a new dataset for you to analyze.”
“Oh good. I am ready.” JB said, still frustrated but hoping for a real breakthrough.
“We have a new procedure to help people get back to normal in a more gradual manner. So, this time, we really need a good algorithm to estimate the progress from being violent to being docile.”
“Wow. This is indeed a noble challenge.”
If you discover this tale on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the violation.
“Yes. In the dataset, you will see our psychiatrist’s ratings on the progress of our patients. We would really like to see an algorithm that can adequately duplicate our psychiatrist’s observations.”
“Sounds like fun.”
“This time, we used mass spectrometer data for the same set of individuals. The data were taken when they were violent, less violent, and docile.”
He continued, “All I can say is that we have perfected the procedure turning aggressive criminals into docile useful members of the society. We have further perfected the tests needed to test the subjects harmlessly and quickly to assess their degree of aggression. All we need now is an automated way to analyze the test results so that we can determine the threshold between acceptable behaviors and aggression.”
The bait.
“At this point, we are totally dependent on you and your talent to help us finish this last piece of the puzzle.”
The pep talk worked marvel on her. She was spell bound by the chat. But she wanted more than money. She wanted fame and glory.
“Dr. Schmidtiz, I appreciate the work you have given me and even more, I appreciate the generosity in your remuneration for the work. But at this point, my department chair told me I need national recognition. For that I need publications. I need to be able to present the results to the professional community…”
He held up one hand.
“JB, yes, I hear you. So far, you have been bound by the non-disclosure agreement and everything you have done are all highly confidential for good reasons. But, after you provide us with this evaluation tool, we will have all the pieces in place. At that time, we need two things before we can go public.”
The hook.
The pep talk continued, “First, we will immediately seek FDA approval. Second, we will apply for patent protection. Once, we have filed the initial paperwork with FDA and submitted the patent application, we are looking to you to write a lot of papers for us. We must tell the world about our procedures and our discovery. In fact, because of your unique credentials, we are looking to you to be our chief spokesman!”
The more he talked, the more she saw dollars signs in her eyes. She saw herself being the chief scientist for this whole project traveling around the world advocating the product. She saw herself being lauded and regarded as the savior of mankind. She saw herself…
“What do you say? JB”
“Sounds like a good plan.” Trying in vain to hide her delight.
“Great. We are anxiously waiting for the results.”
“Er...When this is done, I would very much like to visit your facilities.”
“That can be arranged, but get this last piece done first.”
“Sure thing.”