yes to *or perhaps ' ' (grain of rice size)
but i really think spreading it out is a NO NO.
when using the naked xp core,if you spread it out there was a danger of lint/dust attatching itself to the exposed core.
This would be responsible for extra heat.
when the core was REALLY clean.Which could take some time holding it upto light,checking and such.
You could quickly apply a blob, then ram the sink down fast, in case any germs(lint)got on there.
I even tested this by using cheapie stuff,and spreading it out myself and having a glance under good light.there were LOADS of dust particles viewable,(under an old camera lens).that would never be removed
I used to fret about trying to get that 1 spec off without blowing spit or more lint on,but typically,manufactures stock instructions, are once again falable. Cos i really dont want tons of dust on my core.
I was always gaurenteed great temps by letting the sink spread the as5 for me.