The Checkup: Cancer Spray Lights Up Tiny Tumors

• Japanese scientists have developed a sprayable substance that causes cancerous cells to glow up to 20 times brighter than surrounding ones, helping doctors locate the tiniest of tumors—even ones missed by MRIs or other diagnostic tests. The spray reacts with an enzyme to cause the tumors to light up. And, so far, it has shown no serious side effects. The Huffington Post has more, including a video of how it works.

• The New York Times opened a can of worms yesterday in its Room for Debate column. The topic: “Should legislation protect obesity?” Six experts weigh in officially, but at last count, there were more than seven pages of reader comments. Have at it over here.

• Now, this is pretty darn cool. CNN reports on artificial pancreas technology, which could pretty much eradicate type 1 diabetes. The artificial pancreas would do the glucose regulating that a healthy pancreas normally does, allowing type 1 diabetics to lead, well, normal, healthy lives. The technology’s already well established in 40 other countries, but developers of the product are currently seeking FDA approval for its use in the States.

• Serious soccer players could be at risk for brain damage, if they “head” the ball too often, according to new research. Thing is, you have to head over 1,300 balls a year to begin to suffer traumatic damage. That seems like way more headers than the average Joe Soccer would take. Right?