We report on the Gaussian file search system designed as part of the ChemXSeer digital library. Gaussian files are produced by the Gaussian software [4], a software package used for calculating molecular electronic structure and properties. The output files are semi-structured, allowing relatively easy access to the Gaussian attributes and metadata. Our system is currently capable of searching Gaussian documents using a boolean combination of atoms (chemical elements) and attributes. We have also implemented a faceted browsing feature on three important Gaussian attribute types - Basis Set, Job Type and Method Used. The faceted browsing feature enables a user to view and process a smaller, filtered subset of documents.
Basis sets are some of the most important input data for computational models in the chemistry, materials, biology, and other science domains that utilize computational quantum mechanics methods. Providing a shared, Web-accessible environment where researchers can not only download basis sets in their required format but browse the data, contribute new basis sets, and ultimately curate and manage the data as a community will facilitate growth of this resource and encourage sharing both data and knowledge. We describe the Basis Set Exchange (BSE), a Web portal that provides advanced browsing and download capabilities, facilities for contributing basis set data, and an environment that incorporates tools to foster development and interaction of communities. The BSE leverages and enables continued development of the basis set library originally assembled at the Environmental Molecular Sciences Laboratory. A role for electronic structure databases in assisting users of quantum chemistry applications select better model parameters is discussed in light of experiences gained from a software prototype known as the Computational Chemistry Input Assistant (CCIA). It is argued that the ready availability of information pertaining to the applications and theoretical models can substantially increase the likelihood of novice users obtaining the desired accuracy from their calculations while simultaneously making better use of computer resources. Expert users, who find themselves contemplating studies in new areas of research, may also benefit from the proposed tools. For maximum impact, this assistance should be provided while users are actively engaged in preparing calculations. © 1996 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.