Burnham admitted the match may have had some positive effect in the Caribbean, where it was staged, but insisted it was not good for British sport.

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But there must be some positive effect.

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"There have been signs that these measures have had a positive effect in some submarkets where Chinese buyers have shown a particular interest, " Mr. Loizou said.

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And some signs suggest greater choice is having a positive effect in Indiana.

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So I think it has had a very positive effect for moving and providing some health -- momentum for health care reform.

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They're hoping for the same kind of effect by his focusing on some positive things, and stressing that there is a plan for victory, even though he won't give a timeline.

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So while crosswords certainly won't make you a better pitcher, there is some reason to believe they could have a positive mental effect.

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But in return, he got enough money to buy some rental property and so it will have a lasting positive effect on his financial security.

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Of course, a lot of the supposed mind games have no effect at all - or in some cases actually serve as a positive motivation for the opposition.

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