Selective absorption processes as the origin of puzzling spectral line polarization from the Sun.

Magnetic fields play a key role in most astrophysical systems, from the Sun to active galactic nuclei. They can be studied through their effects on atomic energy levels, which produce polarized spectral lines. In particular, anisotropic radiation 'pumping' processes (which send electrons to higher atomic levels) induce population imbalances that are modified by weak magnetic fields. Here we report peculiarly polarized light in the He I 10,830-A multiplet observed in a coronal filament located at the centre of the solar disk. We show that the polarized light arises from selective absorption from the ground level of the triplet system of helium, and that it implies the presence of magnetic fields of the order of a few gauss that are highly inclined with respect to the solar radius vector. This disproves the common belief that population imbalances in long-lived atomic levels are insignificant in the presence of inclined fields of the order of a few gauss, and opens up a new diagnostic window for the investigation of solar magnetic fields.

Progressive treatment options for children with spinal cord injury.

The purpose of this article is to describe new and innovative treatment options that can enhance function for the pediatric patient with a spinal cord injury (SCI). There are several studies that have demonstrated that functional electrical stimulation (FES) can be beneficial to children and adolescents with SCI. In most instances, FES for hand function has been able to increase independence and decrease the need for caretaker assistance and adaptive equipment. Likewise, lower extremity applications of FES have reduced the amount of bracing required for stepping and have restored autonomy and spontaneity to children. Children and adults alike have gained bladder and bowel continence from FES systems. Other progressive options that are relatively new for children are muscle and tendon transfers to restore function and increase independence with various activities of daily living such as eating and grooming. In addition, although available for some time for children with congenital anomalies, urinary diversion procedures allow children with SCI to catheterize themselves, thereby affording them renewed independence. All of these innovations have the potential to improve the quality of life (QOL) for children and adolescents with SCI.