Abstract: A method for processing images includes identifying empiric model elements (EMEs) in an original high resolution photo-realistic image, where each EME includes a straight central segment, a color profile, and a control area; and geometrically modeling the EMEs in vectorized forms to achieve a generally full visual quality for a representation of said image.

Abstract: Methods and agents for immune modulation and methods for identifying putative immune modulators are provided.

Abstract: A device and method for manipulating a direction of motion of current carriers are presented. The device comprises a structure containing a two-dimensional gas of current carriers configured to define at least one region of inhomogeneity which is characterized by a substantially varying value of at least one parameter from the following: a spin-orbit coupling constant, density of the spin carriers, and a mobility of the gas. The device may be configured and operable to perform spin manipulation of a flux of the spin carrying current carriers to provide at least one of the following types of deviation of said spin-carrying current carriers: spin dependent refraction, spin dependent reflection and spin dependent diffraction on desired deviation angles of a direction of motion of the spin-carrying current carriers being incident on said at least one region of inhomogeneity.

Abstract: A device is presented for assisting an insufficient aortic valve. The device is configured as an auxiliary valve and comprises a resilient deformable sleeve-like valve, deformation of the sleeve-like valve shifting the valve between its closed and opened positions.

Abstract: Methods and agents for immune modulation and methods for identifying putative immune modulators are provided.

Abstract: The present invention includes a means of treating a patient having a keloid. Specifically, the invention includes a method for excising the keloid and administering a GBS toxin isolated from Group B &bgr;-hemolytic Streptococcus bacteria.