Abstract: Genetically modified non-human animals that are immunodeficient and comprise xenotransplanted hepatocytes such as human hepatocytes, wherein the genetically modified non-human animal and/or the transplanted hepatocytes are modified to restore interleukin-6 (IL-6)/interleukin-6 receptor (IL-6R) signaling pathway activity or interleukin-6 receptor subunit beta (GP130) signaling pathway activity in the transplanted hepatocytes, are provided. Also provided are methods of assessing the activity of human-liver-targeting reagents in such non-human animals and methods of making animals with a humanized liver (e.g., with reduced steatosis). Also provided are genetically modified non-human animals comprising an inactivated endogenous Rag2 gene, an inactivated endogenous Il2rg gene, an inactivated endogenous Fah gene, a humanized IL6 gene, and optionally an inactivated endogenous Rag1 gene and methods of using and making such animals.

Abstract: Special patient handling apparatus and method retains increased accessibility advantages for open C-magnet MRI system architecture. The required volume for an accompanying RF shielded gantry room may also be minimized. The special patient transport mechanism may include a structure which at least partly telescopes around the lower pole face of the C-shaped MRI polarizing magnet as the patient is side-loaded into the image volume between the magnet pole faces. Substantially adjacent open accessibility to the patient is maintained throughout the loading procedure and throughout the subsequent preparatory and imaging procedures associated with the MRI system.