PennyPerformers.com: "Penny Stocks that Perform" picks are: ACOR, AMGN, CMLT, CSUN, ETLY, ISRG

Apr 17, 2009 (M2 PRESSWIRE via COMTEX) -- ISRG | Quote | Chart | News | PowerRating -- April 17, 2009 Pennyperformers.com "Penny Stocks that Perform" picks are: Acorda Therapeutics, Inc. (NASDAQ: ACOR), Amgen (NASDAQ: AMGN), Camelot Entertainment Group, Inc. (OTCBB: CMLT), China Sunergy Co., Ltd. (NASDAQ: CSUN), ECOtality, Inc. (OTCBB: ETLY), Intuitive Surgical, Inc. (NASDAQ: ISRG)...and Proudly Introducing Proprietary Push Technology (PPT).

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Apr 16, 2009 -- Acorda Therapeutics, Inc. (NASDAQ: ACOR | Quote | Chart | News | PowerRating) today announced that Anthony Caggiano, M.D., Ph.D., Vice President, Preclinical Development, will present at the upcoming New York Biotechnology Association (NYBA) Annual Meeting on Monday, April 20, 2009 at 9:20 a.m. Eastern Time at the Marriott Marquis Hotel in New York, NY. Dr. Caggiano will present an overview of Acorda's clinical and preclinical pipeline as part of the NYBA Bioscience Industry Showcase.

For information and registration for the Showcase, please contact Patricia Wadington at New York Biotechnology Association.

Investor and strategic partner registration for the Showcase is complimentary, but please note that complimentary registration does not include concurrent NYBA Annual Meeting events, such as the Plenary Luncheon or Gala Reception. Registration for these events may be purchased separately.

About Acorda Therapeutics

Acorda Therapeutics is a biotechnology company developing therapies for spinal cord injury, multiple sclerosis and related nervous system disorders. The Company's marketed products include Zanaflex Capsules(R) (tizanidine hydrochloride), a short-acting drug for the management of spasticity. The Company's pipeline includes a number of products in development for the treatment, regeneration and repair of the spinal cord and brain.

About New York Biotechnology Association

NYBA is the leading advocate for advancing the success of the biotechnology industry in New York State and is its main representative to policy makers, the media and the communities in which we work. NYBA's mission is to support the development and growth of New York's biotechnology industry, and to serve our members and the biotechnology community by providing a network for information exchange, shared services and collective action. NYBA's membership comprises bioscience companies, world-class research institutions and related professional services. Under the banner of The Cures Start Here(R), our goal is to amplify the success New York has had and continues to have in discovering major medical advances and growing a vibrant biotech industry.

April 16, 2009 -- Amgen (NASDAQ: AMGN | Quote | Chart | News | PowerRating) today announced that results from several preclinical studies investigating potential new cancer agents will be presented at the 2009 American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) Annual Meeting in Denver between April 18-22, 2009.

Data will be presented on investigational compounds AMG 386, a peptibody that binds to and inhibits angiopoietins 1 and 2; AMG 479, a fully human monoclonal antibody antagonist of the type 1 insulin-like growth factor receptor (IGF-1R) and AMG 102, a fully human monoclonal antibody antagonist of HGF, the ligand for the c-Met receptor.

"The data being presented at this meeting further our biologic understanding of these novel compounds and pathways, and inform our thinking regarding opportunities to develop predictive or prognostic biomarkers," said C. Glenn Begley, M.D., vice president, Global Hematology and Oncology Research at Amgen. "This is an exciting year for our oncology therapeutics pipeline, as results from a number of clinical programs become available."

Selected Abstracts of Interest -- Assessment of angiogenesis inhibitors in the retinopathy of prematurity model in mice Overview: Examined the inhibition of the VEGF/VEGFR pathway with AMG 273 and the inhibition of the angiopoietin/Tie2 pathway with AMG 386 Lead author: Estrada J.

Abstract No. 140 (Sunday, April 19, 2009, 8:00 am - 12:00 pm)

-- Involvement of the CSF-1/CSF-1R interaction in the control of angiogenesis Overview: Two different neutralizing rat anti murine CSF-1R monoclonal antibodies (mAb), M279 and AFS98 were evaluated for their effect on mouse corneal angiogenesis and corneal macrophage recruitment in vivo Lead author: Liu H.

Abstract No. 1106 (Sunday, April 19, 2009, 1:00 pm - 5:00 pm)

-- Complementary and opposing effects of angiopoietin-1 and angiopoietin-2 inhibitors on tumor blood vessels and normalization Overview: Aimed to elucidate the effects of Angiopoietin (Ang) 1 and Ang2 on the tumor vasculature of a human colon carcinoma model (Colo205) using peptide-Fc fusion proteins (peptibodies) specifically targeting Ang1 (mL4-3) or Ang2 (L1-7(N)) alone or in combination Lead author: Falcon B.

Abstract No. 1996 (Monday, April 20, 2009, 9:40 am - 9:55 am)

-- AMG 479, a novel IGF-1R antibody, inhibits endometrial cancer cell proliferation through disruption of the P13K/Akt and MAPK pathways Overview: Evaluated the effect of a novel antibody to the IGF-1R (AMG 479) on cell proliferation and expression of key targets involved in IGF-1R signaling in endometrial cancer cells Lead author: Mendivil A.

Abstract No. 2804 (Monday, April 20, 2009, 1:00 pm - 5:00 pm)

-- AMG 479, a fully human anti-IGF-1R monoclonal antibody, inhibits rapamycin-induced Akt activation in sarcoma cell lines Overview: Evaluated whether AMG 479 could inhibit this feedback-loop mechanism and thus increase the efficacy of rapamycin and its analogs (mTOR inhibitors).

Lead author: Beltran P.

Abstract No. 2805 (Monday, April 20, 2009, 1:00 pm - 5:00 pm)

-- Dual targeting of the receptor tyrosine kinase EGFRvIII and HGF:c-Met signaling in models of glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) Overview: Examined the effect of combining a fully human neutralizing antibody targeting the HGF:c-Met axis (AMG 102), with a fully human antibody binding to the EGFR and EGFRvIII (panitumumab) to overcome resistance to HGF:c-Met based therapeutic strategies in GBM Lead author: Johns T.

Abstract No. 2044 (Monday, April 20, 2009, 1:10 pm - 1:25 pm)

-- Antagonistic antibodies to c-fms block c-fms-mediated activities, reduce tumor-associated macrophages and decrease tumor growth in preclinical models Overview: Antagonistic antibodies to c-fms were evaluated for their effects on monocytic cell function in vitro and tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) and tumor growth in vivo Lead author: Bonham L.

Abstract No. 2077 (Monday, April 20, 2009, 3:40 pm - 3:55 pm)

-- Erythropoietin Receptor (EpoR) Was Expressed at Low to Undetectable Levels in Tumor Cell Lines: Expression Was Not Regulated by Hypoxia and No Epo-Induced Downstream Signaling Was Detectable Overview: EpoR, mRNA and protein expression were surveyed in 67 tumor-derived cell lines from ovary, breast, head and neck, lung, brain, prostate, cervix, liver, colon and blood Lead author: Swift S.

Abstract No. 4283 (Tuesday, April 21, 2009, 1:00 pm - 5:00 pm)

Amgen Launches Educational Interactive Angiogenesis Website

Amgen would like to invite healthcare professionals to visit http://angiogenesis.amgen.com, where the science of angiogenesis comes to life. Angiogenesis, a fundamental mechanism in normal development and cancer, involves multiple cellular regulators that include the angiopoietins, the VEGF family and other regulators. Amgen has developed an interactive website that will provide users with a cinematic experience through which to view the process of tumor vessel growth.

About Amgen

Amgen discovers, develops, manufactures and delivers innovative human therapeutics. A biotechnology pioneer since 1980, Amgen was one of the first companies to realize the new science's promise by bringing safe and effective medicines from lab, to manufacturing plant, to patient. Amgen therapeutics have changed the practice of medicine, helping millions of people around the world in the fight against cancer, kidney disease, rheumatoid arthritis and other serious illnesses. With a deep and broad pipeline of potential new medicines, Amgen remains committed to advancing science to dramatically improve people's lives. Visit the company's website to learn more about the their pioneering science and their vital medicines.

Apr 16, 2009 -- Camelot Entertainment Group, Inc. (OTCBB: CMLT | Quote | Chart | News | PowerRating) ("Camelot") announced today that it has released its 2008 Annual Report, which was filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") on April 15, 2009. The report can be viewed and downloaded from Camelot's web site and the SEC's website at www.sec.gov.

With the audit and Annual Report now completed, Camelot will be attending several events during the next month, including the Association of Film Commissioners International ("AFCI") Locations Trade Show in Santa Monica, the National Association of Broadcasters ("NAB") Convention in Las Vegas and the Cannes Film Festival in France.

Camelot will also be hosting its annual stockholder meeting in Irvine on May 13th, 2009.

About Camelot Entertainment Group, Inc.:

Camelot Entertainment Group, Inc. is a US publicly traded company (symbol "CMLT") with three major divisions: Camelot Film Group, Camelot Studio Group and Camelot Production Services Group. Camelot is building a different kind of motion picture studio infrastructure by redefining the development, financing, production, and distribution process. Please visit the Company's web site for general information about Camelot Entertainment Group, Inc.

April 16, 2009 -- China Sunergy Co., Ltd. (NASDAQ: CSUN), a specialized solar cell manufacturer based in Nanjing, China, today announced that Dr. Fengming Zhang has resigned from his positions of Vice President of Manufacturing Technology and Director of the Board.

"Since joining China Sunergy in 2004 as one of the founders, Dr. Zhang has made significant contributions to the technological developments of our company and has provided valuable guidance as a Board member. We appreciated Dr. Zhang's contributions and dedication to China Sunergy over the years," commented Dr. Ruennsheng Allen Wang, Director and CEO of China Sunergy.

Dr. Zhang's resignation from China Sunergy is effective from today, April 16, 2009. China Sunergy is seeking replacements for both positions to be vacated by Mr. Zhang, and intends to appoint a new Director and a Vice President when appropriate candidates have been located.

About China Sunergy Co., Ltd.

China Sunergy Co., Ltd. (Nasdaq: CSUN | Quote | Chart | News | PowerRating) ("China Sunergy") is a specialized manufacturer of solar cell products in China. China Sunergy manufactures solar cells from silicon wafers utilizing crystalline silicon solar cell technology to convert sunlight directly into electricity through a process known as the photovoltaic effect. China Sunergy sells solar cell products to Chinese and overseas module manufacturers and system integrators, who assemble solar cells into solar modules and solar power systems for use in various markets.

Apr 16, 2009 -- ECOtality, Inc. (OTCBB: ETLY), a leader in clean electric transportation and storage technologies, today announced it has entered into a commitment with Nissan North America and Maricopa Association of Governments (MAG) to facilitate the establishment of electric vehicle (EV) charge infrastructure throughout Arizona's Maricopa County. In conjunction with the anticipated 2010 launch of Nissan's zero-emission electric vehicle, ECOtality will initiate its EV Micro-Climate program in the Phoenix region to promote sensible policies, intelligent deployment of charge infrastructure, and strong public awareness to foster the successful consumer adoption of grid-connected electric vehicles. With a similar partnership previously announced in Pima County, ECOtality plans to link the Phoenix and Tucson metro areas by implementing strategic fast-charge stations along Interstate 10 (I-10) to create the first true implementation of an EV Corridor in North America.

"By establishing the Phoenix and Tucson metro areas as EV Micro-Climates, Arizona is providing a blueprint for how to intelligently build a statewide EV infrastructure: Make major population areas an EV Micro-Climate and connect them with EV Corridors enabled by fast-charging," said Jonathan Read, president and CEO, ECOtality. "ECOtality's proven EV infrastructure experience, our strong familiarity with the transportation and political environment of Arizona, as well as our industry-leading fast-charge technology, exceptionally positions ECOtality to facilitate the roll-out of EV infrastructure throughout Arizona. We look forward to working closely with the appropriate organizations in Arizona to ensure the implementation of charging infrastructure is done as efficiently and intelligently as possible."

ECOtality, Nissan and MAG have committed to form EV Micro-Climate Working Groups that will unite strategic organizations in Maricopa County to streamline the roll-out of charge infrastructure to support the public launch of grid-connected vehicles. In conjunction with these efforts, Nissan has committed to make available a supply of electric vehicles to the Region's public and private fleets in 2010, the year Nissan's electric vehicle will be ready for the commercial market.

"Nissan through the Renault-Nissan Alliance has committed to being a global leader in zero-emission vehicles," said Dominique Thormann, senior vice president, administration and finance, Nissan North America. "Nissan, the Maricopa Association of Governments, and ECOtality share in the belief that the introduction and expansion of electric vehicles is one of the best solutions to reducing CO2 emissions. This partnership is an important step in making zero emissions a reality in Arizona."

While the implementation of public charge infrastructure is planned to support the initial launch of Nissan's zero-emission vehicle, public and commercial charging stations in the Maricopa region will meet all EV charging system standards (including the SAE J1772 Electric Vehicle Conductive Charge Coupler Specifications) and will be universally compatible with the new grid-connected vehicles of other major automakers.

"This partnership with Nissan and ECOtality enables us to consider strategic initiatives to support the introduction of electric vehicles in our region and to encourage individuals to incorporate green technology into their lives," said MAG Chair Peggy Neely, a Phoenix councilwoman. "Our goal is to work to develop regional policies that improve the quality of life in our region."

About ECOtality, Inc.

ECOtality, Inc., headquartered in Scottsdale, Arizona, is a leader in clean electric transportation and storage technologies. Through innovation, acquisitions, and strategic partnerships, ECOtality accelerates the market applicability of advanced electric technologies to replace carbon-based fuels.

About Nissan North America

In North America, Nissan's operations include automotive styling, engineering, consumer and corporate financing, sales and marketing, distribution and manufacturing. Nissan is dedicated to improving the environment under the Nissan Green Program 2010, whose key priorities are reducing CO2 emissions, cutting other emissions and increasing recycling.

About Maricopa Association of Governments

The Maricopa Association of Governments (MAG) is a regional organization providing planning and policy decisions in the areas of transportation, air quality, water quality, solid waste and human services. MAG is composed of Valley communities working together to ensure a better quality of life for nearly 4 million residents in the Maricopa region. The region includes the cities, towns and Native American Indian Communities within Maricopa County. Governed by a Regional Council that includes 25 mayors and other lead elected officials, MAG is the forum for effective regional planning throughout the region.

Apr 16, 2009 -- Intuitive Surgical, Inc. (NASDAQ: ISRG), the industry leader in surgical robotics, today reported first quarter 2009 revenue of $188.4 million, compared to $188.2 for the first quarter of 2008. First quarter 2009 revenue of $188.4 million was net of $20.1 million of revenue deferrals associated with offers made to certain customers to upgrade their recently purchased da Vinci(r) S(tm) Surgical Systems to our recently announced da Vinci(r) Si(tm) Surgical System. The new da Vinci(r) Si(tm) Surgical System offers several new features, including enhanced 3D HD resolution, an updated and simplified user interface, enhanced operating room integration capabilities, and improved ergonomics. The da Vinci Si also enables an optional second surgeon console allowing a second surgeon the ability to provide da Vinci-enabled surgical assistance and may facilitate teaching efficiencies for surgeons learning da Vinci surgery. The upgrade program also provided our customers the opportunity to exchange their recently purchased da Vinci S camera accessories for da Vinci Si camera accessories. The deferrals reduced first quarter 2009 system revenue by $18.0 million and accessory revenue by $2.1 million. The company expects to recognize all $20.1 million of the revenue deferrals within 2009.

First quarter 2009 instruments and accessories revenue increased to $79.6 million from $61.9 million during the first quarter of 2008 driven by approximately 60% higher surgical procedure volume at customer sites, partially offset by the revenue deferral described above and lower instrument and accessory revenue per procedure resulting from customer efficiency gains, procedure mix, and timing of customer orders. First quarter 2009 service revenue increased to $39.3 million from $27.2 million during the first quarter of 2008.

First quarter 2009 systems revenue of $69.5 million was lower than $99.1 million during the first quarter of 2008 due primarily to the revenue deferral described above and slightly lower da Vinci (r) Surgical System unit sales. 66 da Vinci (r) Surgical Systems were sold during the first quarter of 2009, compared to 74 during the first quarter of 2008.

Three Months Ended March 31,

----------------------------

Revenue ($Millions) 2009 2008 Incr/(Decr)

------------------ ------ ------ ----------

Instruments/Accessories $ 79.6 $ 61.9 $ 17.7

Systems 69.5 99.1 (29.6)

Service 39.3 27.2 12.1

----------------------------

$188.4 $188.2 $ 0.2

----------------------------

First quarter 2009 operating income of $45.0 million was $19.8 million lower than the first quarter 2008 due primarily to the $20.1 million operating income impact of the da Vinci Si launch revenue deferral, offset in part by growth in recurring revenue. Operating results for the first quarter of 2009 included $22.7 million of non-cash stock-based compensation expense in accordance with the Financial Accounting Standards Board SFAS 123R, compared with $14.6 million for the first quarter of 2008.

First quarter 2009 net income was $28.1 million, or $0.72 per diluted share, compared with $44.8 million, or $1.12 per diluted share for the first quarter of 2008. The first quarter 2009 revenue deferral reduced net income by approximately $12.1 million, or $0.30 per diluted share.

During the first quarter 2009 Intuitive entered into a $150.0 million Accelerated Stock Repurchase program. During March 2009, 1.4 million shares of common stock were received and retired under the program. The company ended the quarter with cash, cash equivalents and investments of $822 million, compared to $902 million at December 31, 2008.

Commenting on the announcement, Lonnie Smith, Chairman and CEO of Intuitive Surgical, said, "Despite the challenging economic environment and reduced hospital spending, procedures performed with the da Vinci surgical system continued to demonstrate relatively high growth. We believe the new da Vinci(r) Si(tm) surgical system's improved 3D HD vision, ease of use, efficiency, and second surgeon console capability will help drive the continued adoption of robotic surgery to the benefit of patients throughout the world."

The Company will also announce these results at a conference call today at 1:30 pm PDT. The dial-in numbers for the call are 877-909-3508 for participants located in the U.S. and 517-645-6051 for participants located outside the U.S. The passcode is ISRG and the meeting leader is Mr. Lonnie Smith. To access financial information that will be discussed on the call, please visit Intuitive Surgical's website.

About Intuitive's Products

Intuitive Surgical, Inc., headquartered in Sunnyvale, California, is the global technology leader in robotic-assisted, minimally invasive surgery (MIS). Intuitive Surgical develops, manufactures and markets robotic technologies designed to improve clinical outcomes and help patients return more quickly to active and productive lives. The company's mission is to extend the benefits of minimally invasive surgery to the broadest possible base of patients. Intuitive Surgical -- Taking surgery beyond the limits of the human hand(tm).

About the da Vinci(r) Surgical System

The da Vinci(r) System is a breakthrough surgical platform designed to enable complex surgery using a minimally invasive approach. The da Vinci(r) System consists of an ergonomic surgeon console, a patient-side cart with four interactive robotic arms, a high-performance vision system and proprietary EndoWrist(r) instruments. Powered by state-of-the-art robotic and computer technology, the da Vinci(r) System is designed to scale, filter and seamlessly translate the surgeon's hand movements into more precise movements of the EndoWrist(r) instruments. The net result is an intuitive interface with breakthrough surgical capabilities. By providing surgeons with superior visualization, enhanced dexterity, greater precision and ergonomic comfort, the da Vinci Surgical System makes it possible for more surgeons to perform minimally invasive procedures involving complex dissection or reconstruction. This ultimately has the potential to raise the standard of care for complex surgeries, translating into numerous potential patient benefits, including less pain, a shorter recovery and quicker return to normal daily activities.

Intuitive(r), da Vinci(r), da Vinci(r) S(tm), da Vinci(r) Si(tm), InSite(r) and EndoWrist(r) are trademarks or registered trademarks of Intuitive Surgical, Inc.

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