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Science News for February 14, 2003


Revenge motivates tribal warfare

The behavior of punishing others for their injury is widespread in the animal kingdom, with humans adding a conscious sense of what to achieve through revenge. This leads to complex social rules governing who can be targeted and when, often prioritizing balance over personal relationships.

Research to improve mine safety being developed

University of Alberta researchers are working on a project to remotely scan and analyze core samples, allowing geologists to determine the type and quality of rock without physically inspecting them. This technology has the potential to improve mine safety, accuracy, and production by reducing the need for human intervention.

Early Mars: Warm enough to melt water?

Early Mars research suggests that the planet may have been too cold to melt water, contradicting Dr. James F. Kasting's theory of a greenhouse effect. However, Kasting proposes that methane-producing bacteria could have warmed the planet, allowing for the formation of features like Nanedi Vallis.

'Selfish routing' slows the Internet

A new study by Cornell University researchers finds that selfish routing on the Internet can slow down data transfer by up to one and one-third times what could be achieved by an ideal system. To combat this, they suggest routers consider not only the least congested route but also its impact on the network when sending information.