I've often wondered about the notching of the top of the cylinder to match the contours of the cylinder head and the possible effects on flow related to this unshrouding. I would think there should be some video or technical papers of the flow changes by researchers somewhere.There were masses of research as far back as WW1 in the aircraft engine research files.

1970 Plymouth 'Cuda #'s 440-6(block in storage)currently 493" 6 pack, Shaker, 5 speed Passon, 4.10's
1968 Plymouth Barracuda Convertible 408 Magnum EFI with 4 speed automatic overdrive, 3800 stall lock-up converter and 4.30's (closest thing to an automatic 5 speed going)