So, having a recognizable face (or at least a recognizable name) in Asia should be a plus, come spring.

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The device, if it passes clinical testing that begins this spring, would be a boon for patients with wide, short or steeply angled abdominal aortas.

FORBES: By the Numbers

The Arab spring will pass into another summer and whether it will be long and parched or a genial transition to mellow fruitfulness will depend on how healthy a balance can be achieved between the conflicting goals and expectations of numerous players.

ECONOMIST: International

If parliament fails to pass an amended version within a few days, the elections may have to be put off until next spring or even later, thus increasing the risk that the Sunnis will lose patience because of being denied a voice in government.

ECONOMIST: Iraq

Economists warn though that the warm winter may be artificially fueling both job creation and consumer spending, leaving a slowdown likely later this spring or during the summer.

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At home, in a year that marks the 50th anniversary of the independence of Algeria, as yet untouched by the Arab spring, there will be a complex sense of malaise in the heavily Muslim banlieues, or suburban council estates.

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