Abstract: The use of N-[N-(3,3-dimethylbutyl)-L-&agr;-aspartyl]-L-phenylalanine 1-methyl ester (neotame) as a sweetener in chewing gum compositions is disclosed. The chewing gums have been found to have a clean sweet taste profile with an extremely low level of sweetener usage. The use of neotame as a sweetener in chewing gum compositions also provides an extension of both sweetness and flavor as compared to that expected from the use of other sweetener ingredients.

Abstract: N-[N-(3,3-dimethylbutyl)-L-&agr;-aspartyl]-L-phenylalanine 1-methyl ester is produced by hydrogenation of a mixture of 3,3-dimethylbutyraldehyde and a precursor of L-&agr;-aspartyl-L-phenylalanine 1-methyl ester. In particular, N-[N-(3,3-dimethylbutyl)-L-&agr;-aspartyl]-L-phenylalanine 1-methyl ester is produced using an acid salt of L-&agr;-aspartyl-L-phenylalanine 1-methyl ester or N-protected L-&agr;-aspartyl-L-phenylalanine 1-methyl ester. The production method is efficient and low cost, as compared with conventional N-[N-(3,3-dimethylbutyl)-L-&agr;-aspartyl]-L-phenylalanine 1-methyl ester synthesis.

Abstract: A novel amorphous N-[N-(3,3-dimethylbutyl)-L-&agr;-aspartyl]-L-phenylalanine 1-methyl ester compound is disclosed. Also disclosed are processes for preparing the compound. The novel compound has improved solubility and dissolution properties compared to the known monohydrate.

Abstract: A replacement centerfire bolt assembly for a rimfire rifle having a two-piece bolt with a detachable bolt head assembly and a method for modifying a bolt are disclosed. In accordance with the method, the bolt is first removed from the rifle, and then the rimfire bolt head assembly is removed from a remainder of the bolt. Next, a centerfire bolt head assembly is attached to the remainder of the bolt in place of the rimfire bolt head assembly. This centerfire bolt head assembly includes a bolt head having a central longitudinal axis, a cartridge end, a striker end, and an exterior size and configuration functionally identical to a size and configuration of a rimfire bolt head of the rimfire bolt head assembly. A bore is provided along the central longitudinal axis of the bolt head, with this bore including an enlarged recess adjacent the striker end. A one-piece centerfire firing pin is located in the bore of the bolt head, which firing pin is longer than the bore.