11.   The extent of the slowdown has heightened speculation the Fed is more likely to cut rates to foster growth than to raise them.

12.   The forecast heightened speculation that robust demand for U.S. soybeans will outstrip supply before the next crop can be harvested in the fall.

13.   The survey heightened speculation the U.K. will raise interest rates.

14.   The speculation was heightened when Coach Lute Olson signed six recruits.

15.   This six-month time frame heightens speculation that federal prosecutors have rejected attempts by Symington to strike a plea agreement.

16.   Traders said larger-than-expected decreases in both figures may heighten speculation that U.S. interest rates will be lowered soon.

17.   But the sudden withdrawal of weapons inspectors and other U.N. personnel heightened speculation that the U.S. would launch airstrikes in the next few days.

18.   Kamen has refused to discuss the invention since announcing it last January, heightening the speculation over what it might be.

19.   Speculation was heightened Wednesday when Yeltsin chided Rodionov for his recent statements that steep cuts in defense spending have left the armed forces unable to defend the country.

20.   The allegations have heightened speculation that her days in government are numbered.