NS Research Car

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This morning we observed a three car train leaving the North Carolina State Port at Morehead City, NC, heading west toward New Bern.  The lead car was a modified passenger car labeled "Research" #33.  Immediately behind it was a unit labeled #34 that looked like a modified slug.  It still had the cab, but the center was cut down, suggesting that the prime mover had been removed.  It might have been an APU of some kind.  It was painted dark red, to match the #33 Research car.  These two cars(?) were being pushed by a GP38, #5609.  Any information on the nature of the "research" this unit does would be appreciated.  Also, what does the faux-slug #34 do?  Many thanks.
Tom