1.   But some college officials are worried that the numbers may mask a growing problem.

2.   But the small number of cigarettes masks a grave risk, the researchers say.

3.   Critics say, however, that the numbers mask the real story.

4.   Some compensation consultants say the big numbers mask important truths about Wall Street pay, truths that they say make the amounts seem a little less outlandish.

5.   The overall numbers mask a wide disparity in the hedge fund sector.

6.   The overall numbers masked broad differences in spending plans among different types of businesses.

7.   Yet, the numbers may mask a harsher reality, the demographers acknowledged.