But DCI Neville believes similar systems could also be used to rapidly recognise heavily branded clothing in CCTV images.

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"The formula effect generally, and particularly in the case of clothing, is dependent not just on the choice of index but also on the characteristics of the price movements and levels being measured, sample design, choice of base period and price collection methods, " said its spokeswoman Jill Leyland.

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The result is that cassava remains a subsistence crop in Africa, but in Asia is something on which you can build a business (it can also be used to make clothing, paper and biofuels).

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