31.   But a recent string of shooting deaths blamed on the commando force has soured public opinion.

32.   But consumer confidence in May was lifted by the recent string of interest rate cuts, stronger financial markets and the prospect of tax cuts.

33.   But the recent string of disruptions may be feeding on itself, as disgruntled workers try to duplicate successful job actions elsewhere.

34.   But the recent string of disappearances alarms human rights activists.

35.   Chechnya decided Thursday to expel all journalists working in the secessionist region, citing concerns for their safety after a recent string of kidnappings.

36.   Citizens of the mountain kingdom of Lesotho voted Saturday for a new government, hoping a recent string of political upheavals and military rebellions would become ancient history.

37.   Despite a recent string of losses against Serb government forces, secessionist Kosovo Albanian rebels vowed Tuesday to fight on to victory.

38.   Despite a recent string of losses against Serb government forces, secessionist Kosovo Albanian rebels vowed Tuesday to fight on until final victory.

39.   Despite a recent string of poor performances on the European circuit, Boulmerka has a reputation for coming through under pressure.

40.   Ethnic Albanian analysts in Kosovo said the KLA is regrouping and reorganizing after its recent string of defeats.