Dept. of Business

The intermediate-frequency peaked BL Lacertae (IBL) object 3C 66A is detected during 2007 -2008 in VHE (very high energy: E > 100 GeV) γ-rays with the VERITAS stereoscopic array of imaging atmospheric Cherenkov telescopes. An excess of 1791 events is detected, corresponding to a significance of 21.2 standard deviations (σ), in these observations (32.8 hours live time). The observed integral flux above 200 GeV is 6% of the Crab Nebula's flux and shows evidence for variability on the time-scale of days. The measured energy spectrum is characterized by a soft power law with photon index Γ = 4.1±0.4 stat ±0.6 sys . The radio galaxy 3C 66B is excluded as a possible source of the VHE emission.

This research explores the preferred place for Malaysian consumers to purchase fresh meat using focus group discussions conducted in the Klang Valley. Participants indicated that their decision to purchase fresh meat from either a modern retail outlet or the traditional market was influenced by eight themes. The themes identified were the perceptions of freshness, Halal assurance, having good relationships with retailers, good quality meat, competitive price, convenience, varieties of products to choose from and retail outlets that have a good and pleasant environment for shoppers. Despite the increased number of supermarkets and hypermarkets, not only are the traditional markets able to coexist with modern retail formats, but they remain the preferred place to buy fresh meat.

The dramatic changes in food consumption revealed in the recent Household Food Consumption and Expenditure 1990 survey, which studies trends over the period 1940–90, are reviewed. The increase in the number of meals eaten away from home is discussed together with the underlying causes for the changes in the United Kingdom. The factors which influence the consumer's choice of food are complex and must be added to variables such as Pavour, texture, appearance, advertising etc. Demographic and household role changes and the introduction of microwave ovens have produced changes in eating habits, a reduction in traditional cooking, fragmentation of family meals and an increase in snacking. The vigorous sale of chilled and other prepared foods is related to the large numbers of working wives and single people who require and value convenience. Developments in retailing, with the concentration of 80% of food sales in supermarkets, is also important. Consumers are responding to messages about safety and healthy eating—they are concerned about the way in which food is produced and want safe, ‘natural’, high quality food at an appropriate price. The increase in sales of organic produce probably relates to concerns about intensive farming methods and animal welfare. The choice of food by young people—future consumers—has caused some concern. The introduction of the Single Market in 1993 with the free movement of people and goods within Europe should alter food choice for consumers. Many consumer organizations are concerned about lower standards of consumer protection and the implications for food safety.