11.   America must recognize that changes in Iran offer new opportunities to reduce the tensions in a region vital to its interests.

12.   Although NATO insists its troops are only here to collect weapons, they are having to work hard to reduce tensions, avert confrontations and even patrol roads.

13.   And China should work with Taiwan to reduce tensions so that the Chinese can reverse their recent buildup of missiles on the Chinese coast opposite Taiwan.

14.   As a further sign of reducing tensions, British soldiers out on patrol gave up their camouflage helmets for more relaxed, soft headgear.

15.   Best of all, a study by the Association of Family Therapists finds artificial Christmas tree use can reduce holiday tensions.

16.   Both nations made gestures to reduce tensions.

17.   -- Humor has the power to reduce tensions and create a relaxed atmosphere.

18.   A closer partnership with Mexico will require reducing tensions over immigration and illicit drugs.

19.   A senior administration official involved in the process said that in aiming at a peace treaty, the talks could lead both sides to try to reduce tensions.