The academic paper explores the efficacy of plant-derived polysaccharides, specifically from fenugreek and okra, as nontoxic and eco-friendly alternatives to traditional synthetic polymers for removing microplastics from various water sources. The research details the extraction and characterization of these natural polymers, followed by bench-scale experiments conducted on simulated, groundwater, freshwater, and ocean water samples. Utilizing optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and ζ-potential measurements, the study assesses the microplastic removal efficiency and confirms a bridging mechanism for flocculation. The findings consistently demonstrate that these plant-based polysaccharides outperform commercial polyacrylamide in microplastic removal, suggesting a promising sustainable solution for water treatment.

This Deep Dive examines an extensive New York Times investigation from July 2025 that scrutinizes Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's actions related to the war in Gaza, specifically alleging he prolonged the conflict for political self-preservation. The report details how Netanyahu disregarded intelligence warnings before the October 7th attack, later resisted peace efforts and post-war planning under pressure from far-right coalition members, and even manipulated official records and discredited critics to maintain power amidst corruption trials. While acknowledging the complexity of the war and other contributing factors, the authors conclude that Netanyahu's personal and political motivations significantly influenced the conflict's duration and scope, with profound humanitarian and geopolitical consequences.