Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of determining the metabolic state of neutrophils present in the body of a patient. In particular, the present invention involves the measurement of the rates of in vitro glycolysis in blood samples taken from individuals as a function of the number of selected cells present in the blood sample, including neutrophils and red blood cells. The physiologic information provided by the present method, which, for example, indicates whether an individual's neutrophils are in a quiescent, primed or activated state, allows the medical practitioner to attain a better understanding of the patient's condition and, consequently, assists in the diagnosis and formulation of proper treatment.

Abstract: This invention relates to a biopsy forcep for use in a flexible fiberoptic bronchoscope. More particularly, this invention is directed to a biopsy forcep having an increased range of operability when used in conjunction with the flexible fiberoptic bronchoscope when obtaining tissue samples such as smooth growths in the trachea or main stem bronchii.