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   72171
   We propose to observe five galaxies from a unique sample of 23 nearby,
   isolated ellipticals for which we have extensive optical and IR data.
   There is no X-ray spectroscopy available for these galaxies. Our
   project has two broad goals: (1) to determine the X-ray properties of
   isolated ellipticals and compare them with ellipticals in the richer
   environments of groups and clusters and (2) to search for a diffuse X-
   ray halo characteristic of an intragroup medium which would provide
   direct evidence that ellipticals can evolve from the merger of groups.
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