Abstract: A method for generating and maintaining a benchmark using a long/short investment strategy is disclosed herein. The method for generating and maintaining a benchmark using a long/short investment strategy may involve generating a benchmark by selecting a group of securities from a broad-base index; evaluating the securities included in a benchmark; and monthly rebalancing the benchmark using a long/short investment strategy. The method may also include determining the value of the index and publishing the value of the index as a benchmark for long/short investment portfolios. The value of the index may be determined periodically, daily, dynamically, or every 15 seconds. The securities included in the broad-base index may form a universe of eligible securities and be ranked monthly using the 10 Credit Suisse factors.

Abstract: The typically employed step of separately hydrating gelatin in warm water for the preparation of aerated, gelatin-containing confections such as marshmallow is replaced by hydrating a dry blend of sucrose and gelatin in cold water prior to heating. The marshmallow products produced by this process are made more efficiently and have good string. The gelatin processed in this manner undergoes less cis isomerization than occurs during conventional processing. The invention improves processing for the production of marshmallow pieces, marshmallow fillers, e.g., for cookies and candies, dehydrated marshmallow bits and spoonable marshmallow toppings.