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Context This question explores the rationale behind incinerating equipment used on patients with prion diseases, such as Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (CJD), rather than relying on conventional disinfection or sterilization techniques. It delves into the unique properties of prions, the challenges they pose to standard decontamination processes, and the historical context influencing current practices. Simple Answer Prions are super tough and resist normal cleaning. Burning them completely gets rid of them for sure. Prion diseases are scary and have no cure. Incineration helps prevent spreading the disease. It's a safety measure based on past prion outbreaks. Detailed Answer Prions, unlike bacteria or viruses, are misfolded proteins that cause other normal proteins in the brain to misfold in the same way, leading to neurodegenerative diseases known as Transmissible Spongiform Encephalopathies (TSEs). These diseases, which include Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (CJD) in humans, scrapie in sh...

Context Question about the science behind food safety? Some vending machines offer vacuum/airtight packaged meals that stay good for a week or longer. Other vending machines offer freshly made meals in non-airtight containers claiming it's good for a week or so. But is that possible? If so, what's the difference between me making a meal and storing it versus the way they make and store it that makes it safe to store it for more than 2 days? Simple Answer Vending machine meals are made in a controlled environment. The food is vacuum sealed to remove air. The meals are often pasteurized or sterilized. The meals are stored at a safe temperature. The meals are packaged in a way that prevents contamination. Detailed Answer Vending machine meals are typically made in a controlled environment, such as a commercial kitchen. This environment is designed to minimize the risk of contamination. The food is prepared using clean equipment and utensils, and the workers who handle the food are...