1.   Despite generally optimistic assessments of the sixth round by commentators, particularly regarding the Syrian-Israeli negotiations, no concrete progress was reported.

2.   Buoyed following his triumphant return last week to the Palestinian self-rule territories, Arafat offered an optimistic assessment of the task ahead.

3.   But Berger gave a cautiously optimistic assessment of the situation in Bosnia.

4.   Fed Gov. Laurence Meyer and Vice Chairman Alice Rivlin also gave optimistic assessments of the outlook for growth and inflation in testimony to Congress today.

5.   In contrast to optimistic Israeli assessments that the talks on Hebron are approaching conclusion, Arafat asserted that none of the outstanding problems had been resolved.

6.   Nevertheless, Shaath gave a somewhat optimistic assessment of prospects for peace.

7.   On his return to Israel on Tuesday night, he offered a relatively optimistic assessment of the talks.

8.   Slim might be an optimistic assessment.

9.   State Senate Republican Leader Joseph Bruno gave an optimistic assessment of the meeting with Daniels.

10.   The agency cited rising consumer and corporate spending, as well as improved housing investment as the basis of the more optimistic assessment.