In this 2008 annual report, which included a statement of comprehensive income, Bristol-Myers Squibb reported the following items (dollars in million):

Net earnings from discontinued operations ..... $113

Research and development ......... (3,585)

Foreign currency translation .......... (123)

Net gain on disposal of business ....... (1,979)

Provision for restructuring .......... (218)

Gain on sale of assets ............... 159

Cost of products sold ............ (6,396)

Litigation charges .............. (33)

Equity in net income of affiliates ......... 617

Required

(a) Explain the nature of each item, describe where they would be disclosed on the income statement (including comprehensive income), and statement whether or not they would be reported net of taxes.

(b) Discuss each item in terms of its persistence.