1535 ET - U.S. natural gas futures recover much of their early losses that followed further warning in near-term weather outlooks at the weekend, but still settle lower on the day. Friday's commitment of traders reported showed an increase in net-short positions, but driven entirely by a drop in long positions, Eli Rubin of EBW Analytics says in a note. "While fundamentals remain weak, any short profit-taking or stabilization together with a technically oversold natural gas market may lay the groundwork for a relief rally," he adds. Nymex natural gas for November delivery settles down 1.4% at $2.602/mmBtu after falling briefly below $2.50.