31.   Blue Cross officials say the new fees reflect a national trend toward paying doctors more equitably.

32.   A few cities, defying the national trend, have reduced their welfare rolls faster than the states in which they are located.

33.   A lack of graciousness, Thomas said, has become a national trend.

34.   A Senate forum examines the fast-growing national trend and hears from critics and industry defenders.

35.   According to crime statistics released by the FBI last May, crime rates in Phoenix and its suburbs have increased, bucking a national trend.

36.   Accelerated national trends in downsizing and outsourcing have changed the national employment landscape and threatened employee security.

37.   After two grim years of defying the national trend toward fewer murders, Phoenix finally is headed in the right direction.

38.   Again, this approach is part of a national trend.

39.   Brown agrees that soft adventures in rafting are a national trend.

40.   Bucking the national trend, electricians have been some of the most aggressive organizers in the last couple of years, and their efforts are paying off.