what are some characteristics in urinalysis that can be used to diagnose diabetes.

the presence of ketones.

it's easier just to google the answers, you know. it takes like 2 seconds and the info is right there.

The presence ketone bodies would be the most common thing...however urinalysis is not the test of choice for diabetes. Blood glucose is the most accurate and instantaneous test. You need a glucometer kit. Follow the directions and test a tiny drop of your blood.

I've read that in ancient times, it'd be tasted for sugar/sweetness. but now we have technology that should make that less gross.

You just taste it at the tip of your tongue. If it's sweet it's diabeetus.

I'm not a doctor. I'd guess more sugar in the urine.

The pH level ...

😱

Glucose and Ketones are excreted in urine. Glucose can also be found in urine if the kidneys are damaged so its not definative but if Ketones are in the urine you are definitely in ketoacidosis. This is a sign of fats being broken down in the blood stream. The body needs energy to function and if your body can't break down enough sugars because of lack of insulin then it breaks down fat for energy. This is also the basis for the Atkins diet.
Both of those analytes can be used to diagnose diabetes.