31.   In NEW YORK, copper was little changed, after reaching a one-year high amid lean inventories and unexpectedly strong demand.

32.   In times of lean inventories, traders have relied on rising feed prices to force the livestock industry to reduce corn usage, effectively easing supplies.

33.   Lean inventories could set the stage for a stronger second quarter, if consumer demand picks up.

34.   Last year, rising prices and lean inventories caused concern among consumer advocates and northeastern lawmakers that low-income customers might be left out in the cold.

35.   Lean inventories have whipsawed consumers, as well as industries like trucking and airlines.

36.   Lower Brazilian coffee exports would come at a time of lean inventories.

37.   Lean inventories and robust global demand are expected to help commodities extend a rally that took hold in early February.

38.   Lean inventories, however, are proving a big problem as shipping becomes iffy during the UPS strike.

39.   Many investors are accepting lower yields because they expect lean global inventories, a seasonal rise in demand and worldwide economic growth to keep oil prices high.

40.   Natural gas futures surged for the second day amid expectations that cold weather will cause a further decline in already lean inventories.