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Urea: The hidden fuel for ocean microbes

A new study reveals that ammonia-oxidizing archaea rely on urea as a nitrogen source, enabling them to flourish in open ocean waters. This discovery challenges existing understanding of nitrification rates and highlights the crucial role of urea in sustaining ocean productivity.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Marine Microbiology·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 11, 2025
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Observing ozonated water’s effectiveness against SARS-CoV-2 in saliva

Researchers investigated ozonated water's impact on SARS-CoV-2 in saliva, discovering that protein concentrations like amylase and mucin decrease ozone stability and effectiveness. This study provides insights into the applicability of ozonated water for disinfection in real-world settings.

SourceOsaka Metropolitan University·JournalJournal of Hospital Infection·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 3, 2025

Chinese scientists synthesize unsymmetrical ureas using non-phosgene method

Researchers developed a novel one-step synthesis method for unsymmetrical ureas, avoiding the use of phosgene and reducing corrosive acid generation. The new carbonylation mode is applicable to various aromatic and halogenated amines, enabling efficient production of nitrogen-containing compounds.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalScience·DateNov 27, 2024

Smart mask monitors breath for signs of health

A new smart mask prototype, EBCare, analyzes chemicals in exhaled breath in real-time, offering personalized health monitoring for respiratory ailments like asthma and COPD. The device's self-cooling system allows for daily wear, while its low cost makes it a promising tool for remote health assessments.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalScience·DateAug 29, 2024
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Microbial research unravels a global nitrogen mystery

Novel research by University of Oklahoma-led team improves understanding of ammonia oxidation, a critical component of the global nitrogen cycle. Different AOM lineages employ varying regulatory strategies to minimize competition, allowing coexistence in the same environment.

SourceUniversity of Oklahoma·JournalNature Microbiology·DateFeb 1, 2024

Efficiently moving urea out of polluted water is coming to reality

Researchers at Worcester Polytechnic Institute have developed a material to selectively oxidize urea in water, producing hydrogen gas. The material, made of nickel and cobalt atoms with tailored electronic structures, enables the efficient conversion of urea into hydrogen through an electrochemical reaction.

SourceWorcester Polytechnic Institute·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 18, 2024

The evolutionary timeline of diminished boric acid and urea transportation in aquaporin 10

Researchers analyzed Aqp10s in eight bony vertebrate species to understand the evolutionary timeline of diminished boric acid and urea transportation. The study found that Aqp10.2 in ray-finned fishes restricts urea and boric acid passage, suggesting a loss of solute transport through evolution.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalGenome Biology and Evolution·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 20, 2023
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

High-speed proton transaction

Researchers at DESY reveal the rapid proton transaction process between urea molecules, which could have led to RNA molecule formation billions of years ago. The experiment demonstrates the importance of studying molecular processes in aqueous environments for understanding biological phenomena.

SourceDeutsches Elektronen-Synchrotron DESY·JournalNature·DateJun 28, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Scientists discover urea in atmosphere revealing profound consequences for climate

New research from the University of Manchester reveals that areas rich in marine life are significantly impacting our ecosystems and climate. The study found that urea, a nitrogen-rich compound, is being transported over long distances through the atmosphere to benefit nutrient-deficient environments.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 15, 2023

Beneficial bacteria in the infant gut uses nitrogen from breast milk to support baby’s health

Researchers at UMass Amherst have discovered that beneficial microbes in infant gut use nitrogen from human milk to support pediatric nutrition and development. The study provides new insights into the molecular underpinnings of these processes, which could lead to improved infant health around the world.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalGut Microbes·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 27, 2023

Kobe University and AGC successfully convert dry cleaning solvent into useful chemical compounds

Researchers developed a new photo-oxidation method to efficiently synthesize pharmaceutical intermediates and polyurethane from perchloroethylene, a common dry cleaning solvent. The method yields high-quality compounds with minimal environmental impact, offering a promising alternative for sustainable chemical recycling.

SourceKobe University·JournalACS Omega·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 31, 2023

Urine could play key part in future biotech systems

Researchers have developed a method that uses urea from urine to trigger the production of proteins in bacteria, replacing costly 'inducer' molecules. The new system produces similar quantities of protein as standard methods while being cheaper and easier to use, opening up new avenues for biotech industries.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalNew Biotechnology·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 26, 2022
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

NTU Singapore scientists create renewable biocement entirely out of waste material

The NTU team has developed a process using industrial carbide sludge and urea to create biocement, which can strengthen soil, reduce water seepage, and even repair rock carvings. The biocement-making process generates fewer carbon emissions and requires less energy compared to traditional cement production methods.

SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalJournal of Environmental Chemical Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 13, 2022

Using bacteria to build settlements on Mars

Researchers at Indian Institute of Science (IISc) have developed a method to make bricks out of Martian soil using bacteria and urea. These 'space bricks' can be used for building-like structures on Mars, reducing porosity and increasing strength. The team plans to study the effect of Mars' atmosphere and low gravity on the bricks.

SourceIndian Institute of Science (IISc)·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 20, 2022
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

Novel electrocatalyst boosts synthesis of urea from CO2 and N2

A novel InOOH electrocatalyst with frustrated Lewis pairs enables efficient urea synthesis from CO2 and N2 at room temperature. The catalyst achieves a high urea yield rate of 6.85 mmol h-1 g-1, promising a sustainable solution to excessive CO2 emissions during N2 fixation.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalChem Catalysis·DateDec 15, 2021

A new single-atom catalyst can produce hydrogen from urea at an exceptional rate

Researchers developed a strategy to achieve ultra-high loading of single metal atom sites on cobalt oxide support, stabilizing Rh and other noble metals. The strained surface showed exceptional UOR activity and stability, requiring lower working voltage than commercial Pt and Rh catalysts.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalEnergy & Environmental Science·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 13, 2021
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

NTU Singapore scientists develop ‘greener’ way to make fertiliser

Researchers at Nanyang Technological University (NTU) Singapore have devised a new method for producing urea, a key compound in fertilisers, through electrocatalysis. This approach produces urea five times more efficiently than previous methods and has the potential to contribute to sustainable agricultural practices.

SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalNature Sustainability·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 19, 2021

Novel diarylamides as orally active diuretics targeting urea transporters

Researchers discovered novel diarylamides with excellent in vitro UT inhibitory activity, leading to the identification of a promising preclinical candidate. Oral administration of the compound showed a superior diuretic effect in vivo without causing electrolyte imbalance or toxicity.

SourceCompuscript Ltd·JournalActa Pharmaceutica Sinica B·DateApr 8, 2021
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

Novel catalysts improve efficiency of urea synthesis at ambient conditions

Researchers have developed novel Bi-BiVO4 Mott-Schottky heterostructure catalysts for efficient urea synthesis under ambient conditions. The spontaneous charge transfer at the heterointerfaces promotes targeted adsorption and activation of CO2 and N2 molecules, effectively suppressing CO poisoning.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateFeb 26, 2021

Astronaut urine to build moon bases

Researchers find that urea in astronaut urine can be used to soften concrete, making it more pliable and resistant to extreme temperatures. The discovery could help reduce costs associated with transporting construction materials to the Moon.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalJournal of Cleaner Production·DateMar 27, 2020
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

Fast and furious: New class of 2D materials stores electrical energy

Researchers have discovered a new class of 2D materials called MXenes that can store enormous amounts of charge, similar to batteries. These materials can be charged or discharged within tens of seconds, making them ideal for rapid energy storage.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalJournal of Materials Chemistry C·DateMar 3, 2020

Messenger RNA therapy in mice

Administering nanoparticles carrying messenger RNA for the arginase gene restored urea cycle function and prolonged lifespan in genetically deficient mice. This treatment approach holds promise for treating inherited metabolic disorders like arginase deficiency.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 9, 2019
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

L-proline catalyzed synthesis

Researchers from Mumbai Institute of Chemical Technology developed a simple and efficient method to synthesize unsymmetrical N,N'-disubstituted urea and N-substituted urea derivatives using L-proline as a catalyst. The methodology enables the synthesis of various phenylurea derivatives with excellent yield at mild conditions.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalLetters in Organic Chemistry·DateJan 12, 2019

Taking steps toward a wearable artificial kidney

Researchers have created a nanomaterial called MXene that can capture urea from dialysis waste, paving the way for a more comfortable and effective artificial kidney. The material is lightweight, safe, and can hold onto urea even at body temperature.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Nano·DateOct 17, 2018

Disrupted nitrogen metabolism might spell cancer

Researchers found altered nitrogen metabolism in many cancers, producing detectable changes in body fluids and contributing to new mutations. This dysregulation may facilitate early detection of cancer and predict immunotherapy success.

SourceWeizmann Institute of Science·JournalCell·DateAug 13, 2018
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Reining in soil's nitrogen chemistry

Researchers found that coating fertilizer with maleic-itaconic polymers (MIPs) slows down urease activity, improving nitrogen availability for plants. The study suggests farmers have a choice depending on their soil's acidity, offering a potential solution to increase crop yields and reduce environmental impact.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalSoil Science Society of America Journal·DateJul 11, 2018

How the kidneys produce concentrated urine

Researchers at Max Delbrück Center find GRHL2 protein crucial for concentrating urine and maintaining salt levels in the kidneys. Genetically modified mice lacking GRHL2 produce more diluted urine, highlighting its importance for regulating body fluids.

SourceMax Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateDec 13, 2017
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

Major cause of dementia discovered

Researchers identify build-up of urea in brain as major cause of dementia, with potential for early diagnosis and treatment. The study suggests that high brain urea levels may be a pivotal role in all types of age-related dementias.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 11, 2017

Kidney disease increases risk of diabetes, study shows

A new study from Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis suggests that kidney dysfunction increases the risk of diabetes. Elevated urea levels, which can be lowered through medication and diet, are a likely cause of this relationship.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalKidney International·DateDec 11, 2017

New green solvent could help clean our air

French researchers have developed a new green solvent that can trap harmful volatile organic compounds from the air. The non-flammable mixture, made from choline salt and urea, was found to dissolve up to 500 times more chemicals than water at 30°C.

SourceSpringer·JournalEnvironmental Chemistry Letters·DateAug 24, 2017
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

Evaluating greenhouse gas emissions in an irrigated cropping system

Researchers found that a new type of nitrogen fertilizer, SuperU, can significantly reduce nitrous oxide emissions from irrigated crops by up to 53% compared to traditional granular urea. However, the effect depends on crop rotation, with yields remaining unaffected when used in corn production.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalSoil Science Society of America Journal·DateJun 12, 2017

Chronic kidney disease may cause diabetes

A study by CRCHUM researchers reveals that chronic kidney disease can cause secondary diabetes through the buildup of urea in the blood. The disease impairs insulin secretion from pancreatic beta cells, leading to increased blood glucose levels and potentially progressing to diabetes.

SourceUniversity of Montreal Hospital Research Centre (CRCHUM)·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateAug 15, 2016
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

Urea impairs insulin-producing cells in chronic kidney disease

Research at the University of Montreal found that high urea levels impair insulin secretion and blood glucose regulation in chronic kidney disease. A mouse model study demonstrated similar reductions in insulin secretion and poor glucose control when urea was increased.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateAug 15, 2016

Bloom preservation

Research by Jamshidi et al. found that combining salicylic acid, malic acid, and urea can extend cut gerbera blooms' vase life from a week to over two weeks. These compounds prevent bacterial contamination and sustain enzyme activity in the stems.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Postharvest Technology and Innovation·DateMay 19, 2015

The body's 'Transformers'

A study by UCSB scientists examined the unique properties of tau, a critical protein in neurons that can form clumps associated with Alzheimer's disease. Researchers found that exposing tau to certain chemicals, such as urea, could prevent aggregation, while another compound, TMAO, accelerated it.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 25, 2015
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

University of Illinois researchers develop inexpensive hydrolysable polymer

Researchers at the University of Illinois have developed a cheap, hydrolysable polymer called poly(hindered urea)s (PHUs), which can be designed to degrade over time. This material has potential applications in drug delivery, tissue engineering, and packaging, offering advantages over traditional hydrolyzable polymers.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateDec 2, 2014

Recycling astronaut urine for energy and drinking water

Scientists have developed a new technique to convert astronaut urine into fuel and drinking water, reducing the waste burden in space missions. The Urea Bioreactor Electrochemical system efficiently converts urea into ammonia, which is then turned into energy with a fuel cell.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering·DateApr 9, 2014

Soft-shelled turtles urinate through mouth

Researchers discovered that Chinese soft-shelled turtles urinate primarily through their mouths, allowing them to conserve water in brackish environments. This unique adaptation enables the turtles to avoid problems associated with drinking salty water and excreting excess salts.

SourceThe Company of Biologists·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateOct 11, 2012