Interesting topic, which I have enjoyed reading.
I would believe that the Vortex Wing Cell works by reducing speration of Laminar flow, which normally occurs some distance down the top surface, as the turbulance tends to do this. I dont believe the vortex will be contain like the picture shows as it will suck air into it, from the low pressure forcing other air to spill over. As the Vortex will be a reduced pressure region, I would be unsure of its effects on lift, as It might increase lift from the low pressure suction just above it.
The step wing, would be interesting to see some Aerofoil data, It could be used on Wind Turbines, but until Material preformance takes another Jump for aircraft at least, the subtracted area is needed for Ailerons and Flaps( storage and Load Paths)
Any comments good or bad on this would be welcomed