Note 8 - Income taxes

At the end of each interim reporting period, the Company estimates its effective income tax rate expected to be applicable for the full year. This estimate is used to determine the income tax provision or benefit on a year-to-date basis and may change in subsequent interim periods.

The Company’s effective tax rate benefit (provision) for the three months ended April 30, 2013 was a benefit of 0.7% compared to a benefit of 1.0% during the three months ended April 30, 2012. The Company’s effective tax rate benefit (provision) for the nine months ended April 30, 2013 was a benefit of 1.8% compared to a provision of (2.4%) during the nine months ended April 30, 2012. The tax benefit (provision) for the periods were based on state and local taxes and domestic and foreign tax for intangibles. The Company’s effective tax rate for both periods differed from the expected net operating loss carryforward benefit at the U.S. federal statutory rate of 34% primarily due to the inability to recognize such benefit. The carryforward benefit cannot be recognized because of uncertainties relating to future taxable income in terms of both its timing and its sufficiency, which would enable the Company to realize the federal carryforward benefit.

The Company files a consolidated Federal income tax return. The Company files combined returns with California, Michigan and New York State and City for certain subsidiaries. Other subsidiaries file separate state and foreign tax returns. With few exceptions, the periods that remain subject to examination are fiscal years ended July 31, 2010 through July 31, 2012.