Categoría: Geovanny Vicente

SILVER SPRING, Md., Aug. 3, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) today continued to take action in the ongoing response to the COVID-19 pandemic:

• The FDA issued emergency use authorizations (EUAs) to Siemens for its ADVIA Centaur SARS-CoV-2 IgG (COV2G) and Atellica IM SARS-CoV-2 IgG (COV2G) tests, which are the first COVID-19 serology tests that display an estimated quantity of antibodies present in the tested individual’s blood. These tests are known as «semi-quantitative» because they do not display a precise measure, but rather, they provide an estimate of the quantity of a patient’s antibodies produced against infection with the virus that causes COVID-19.
• Testing updates:
• To date, the FDA has currently authorized 198 tests under EUAs; these include 161 molecular tests, 35 antibody tests, and 2 antigen tests.

Additional Resources:

• FAQs on Testing for SARS-CoV-2
• Policy for Coronavirus Disease-2019 Tests During the Public Health Emergency (Revised)
• Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19)

Media Contact: Lee.Herring@fda.hhs.gov
Consumer Inquiries: 888-INFO-FDA

The FDA, an agency within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, protects the public health by assuring the safety, effectiveness, and security of human and veterinary drugs, vaccines and other biological products for human use, and medical devices. The agency also is responsible for the safety and security of our nation’s food supply, cosmetics, dietary supplements, products that give off electronic radiation, and for regulating tobacco products.

 

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SOURCE U.S. Food and Drug Administration

PARSIPPANY, N.J., Aug. 3, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — Ricoh Imaging Americas Corporation today announced the PENTAX V binocular/monocular series, a new line of products with unique, multi-function features designed to greatly enhance operability and usability for a wide range of applications. The first two models are the PENTAX VD 4X20 WP binoculars with a first-of-its-kind detachable design, and the PENTAX VM 6X21 WP monocular, designed to facilitate close-range observations.

Featuring durable, dependable waterproof construction**, both models in the new PENTAX V-Series are ideal for use at outdoor sports events, concerts and theatrical performances, and locations such as beaches and waterfalls, or in the rain.

The PENTAX VD 4X20 WP is the world’s first «three-in-one» binocular product*. As conventional binoculars, the PENTAX VD 4X20 WP delivers a solid, magnified view of the subject. However, the innovative design also allows the user to separate the two barrels and use them independently as two separate monoculars or combine the barrels inline into a single, high-power telescope with 16X magnification.

With a non-slip, rubber-coated exterior and seesaw-type focus adjustment, the PENTAX VM 6×21 WP monocular can be securely held and focused using just one hand, making it ideal for trekking or hiking. With a minimum focusing distance of approximately 27.5 inches and a wide focus adjustment range, this monocular can be used in applications ranging from magnified views of distant scenery to close-up observations of small objects.

Two optional accessories expand the capabilities of the PENTAX VM 6×21 WP monocular. An accessory stand, the Macro Stand V-MS1, allows the monocular to be used as a microscope capable of magnifying approximately 18X. A smartphone adapter accessory (Smartphone Adapter V-SA1) enables shooting and recording with a smartphone. Both accessories and the VM 6×21 WP monocular are available in the PENTAX VM 6×21 WP Discovery Kit.

Ricoh also announced the PENTAX UD 9X21 and PENTAX UD 10X21 roof-prism binoculars. Boasting the lightest weight and most compact design of any PENTAX binoculars, these highly portable models provide a higher magnification than most other compact binoculars currently on the market.

Despite their palm-sized bodies, these binoculars provide six to eight times greater magnification than similarly-sized models. The PENTAX UD 9X21 incorporates fully multi-coated optics — a series of lens coatings identical to those applied to higher-class models — to assure bright and clear viewing. The PENTAX UD 10X21 optics offer even higher power at 10X magnification, while retaining the same compact body size. With a choice of two magnifications, the PENTAX UD series assures comfortable viewing in a variety of applications, while excelling in cost performance.

The PENTAX UD 9X21 is available in five different body colors to accommodate user color preferences.

| Pricing and Availability | 

The PENTAX V-Series and PENTAX UD binoculars will be available in September at www.us.ricoh-imaging.com as well as at select Ricoh Imaging-authorized retail outlets nationwide for a manufacturer’s suggested retail price between $79 and $249 depending on the model.

| Main Features of the new PENTAX VD 4X20 WP |

1. Detachable, three-in-one design

• Binocular function: used as conventional binoculars to deliver a solid, magnified view of the subject at 4X magnification.
• Monocular function: by disconnecting the two barrels, can used as two independent monoculars with 4X magnification. Unlike binoculars, which demand adjustment of pupillary distance and diopter for each user, these monoculars allow users to observe the subject with focus adjustment alone.
• Telescope function: by connecting the two barrels inline, it functions as a 16X telescope.
  * As of July 12, 2020, based on RICOH IMAGING research.

2. Exceptional optical performance

All reflective surfaces of the optical elements and prisms have been fully multi-coated to prevent excessive reflection. By treating roof prisms with phase coating and auxiliary prisms with super-high-reflection dielectric, multi-layer coating, this model boosts improved transmissivity and delivers outstanding imaging performance with a bright, sharp, high-contrast view of the subject with minimal flare and ghost images.

3. Washable, waterproof body

Featuring weather-resistant construction* (equivalent to JIS Class 7; protected against immersion to one meter under the water), this model can be rinsed clean with water, and is usable under all weather conditions.
** Not usable in the water.

4. Others

1. Exclusive neck strap, which double-functions as two independent hand straps for monoculars
2. Helicoid eyepiece rings, with single-action storage operation
3. Optional TP-3 tripod adapter (currently available) for installation on a tripod 

| Main Features of the new PENTAX VM 6X21 WP |

1. Effortless, single-hand operation

Featuring a compact, palm-sized body, this model provides a non-slip, rubber-coated exterior to assure firm hold by either hand. Its seesaw-type focus adjustment mechanism assures easy focusing operation by the holding hand, allowing the user to observe a subject with one hand while trekking or hiking, or while carrying a bag with the other hand.

2. Bright, clear view

All reflective surfaces of the optical elements and prisms are fully multi-coated to prevent excessive reflection. Coupled with phase coating applied to the roof prism, this model boosts transmissivity and delivers outstanding imaging performance with a bright, sharp, high-contrast view of the subject with minimal flare and ghost images.

3. Dedicated accessories greatly expand its capabilities

Coupling this model with a smartphone using an optional Smartphone Adapter V-SA1* will allow the user to observe a spectacular, magnified view of the subject on the phone’s monitor and to capture images on it. Also, by mounting an optional Macro Stand V-MS1, it can be used as a microscope with approximately 18X magnification to observe an enlarged view of microscopic objects. When the object is dark due to the monocular shadow during observation, you can observe it while illuminating it with the built-in LED light. In addition, using it with the Smartphone Adapter V-SA1 can significantly expand the range of use of the main unit, including the ability to shoot and save super close-up images.
*Depending on your smartphone’s size and the position of the camera lens, you may not be able to attach it.

4. Washable, waterproof body

Featuring waterproof construction* (equivalent to JIS Class 7; protected against immersion to one meter under the water), this model can be rinsed clean with water, and is usable under all weather conditions.
* Not usable in the water.

5. Others

1. Wide focus adjustment range (70cm to infinity), for close-range observation of nearby subjects
2. Exclusive carrying case, with a belt loop on both sides to facilitate storage and removal from either side of user body
3. Tripod receptacle, for easy installation of a tripod without an adapter

| Main Features of the new PENTAX UD |

1. Compact, lightweight design

The PENTAX UD series features a compact, palm-sized body and weighs approximately 195 grams (6.9 ounces)—the lightest of all existing PENTAX binoculars. Its compact, easy-to-hold body assures outstanding portability in a wide range of applications, from nature observation to the viewing of sports, concerts and theatrical performances.

2. Bright, clear viewing

Thanks to the incorporation of multi-coated optics designed to eliminate excessive reflection, the PENTAX UD series delivers a bright, clear view of the subject free of flare and ghost images. The PENTAX UD 9X21 features fully multi-coated optics — a multi-layer coating applied to all reflective lens surfaces — to assure an especially bright view of the subject. 
(Note: The PENTAX UD 10X21 has a single multi-coated lens, while other lenses are treated with a single-layer coating.)

3. Other features

• A minimum focusing distance of approximately three meters for a sharp view of close-range subjects
• Nonslip diopter rings for easy, error-free diopter adjustment
• Optional TP-3 tripod adapter (currently available) for installation on a tripod

♦  Designs and specifications are subjects to change without notice.

PENTAX VD Specifications

PENTAX VM Specifications:

PENTAX UD Specifications

| About Ricoh Imaging Americas Corporation |

Ricoh Imaging Americas Corporation is a subsidiary of Ricoh Company Ltd., a global technology company specializing in office imaging equipment, production print solutions, document management systems and IT services.  Headquartered in Tokyo, Ricoh Company Ltd. Is part of Ricoh Group, which operates in about 200 countries and regions.

The company operating now as Ricoh Company Ltd. was originally founded in 1919, under the name Asahi Optical Joint Stock Co. and launched its first SLR camera in the 1950s under the PENTAX name. Today, the company continues to produce the heritage-rich, award-winning line of PENTAX DSLR cameras, lenses and sport optics equipment as well as Ricoh’s offering of stylish and compact digital cameras, known for their wide-ranging, rich set of features.

For further information, please visit www.us.ricoh-imaging.com

© 2020 Ricoh Imaging Americas Corporation. All rights reserved. All referenced product names are the trademarks of their respective companies.

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SOURCE Ricoh Imaging Americas Corporation

BOGOTÁ, Colombia, Aug. 3, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — Ecopetrol S.A. (BVC: ECOPETROL; NYSE: EC) announces that the rating agency Moody’s kept the Company’s long-term international rating at Baa3, with stable outlook.

Moody’s highlighted the Company’s strength as a leading firm in Colombia, the benefits of being an integrated company, as well as the adequate liquidity levels required to navigate the current situation.

Moody’s maintained Ecopetrol’s individual credit rating (Stand – Alone/ without incorporating government support) at ba1.

Ecopetrol is Colombia’s largest firm and is an integrated oil company that is among the 50 largest in the world and the four largest in Latin America. In addition to Colombia, where it generates over 60% of the country’s production, it is active in exploration and production in Brazil, Peru and the United States (Gulf of Mexico). Ecopetrol operates the largest refinery in Colombia, most of the country’s oil-pipeline and polyduct network, and is significantly increasing its share of bio-fuels. This press release contains statements relating to business prospects, estimates of operating and financial results, and Ecopetrol’s growth prospects. All are projections, and therefore are based solely on management’s expectations of the company’s future and its continuous access to capital to finance the company’s sales plan. Achieving these estimates in the future depends on its performance under given market conditions, regulations, competition, performance of the Colombian economy and industry, among other factors; therefore, they are subject to change without prior notice.

For further information, contact:

Juan Pablo Crane De Narváez
Head of Capital Markets
Phone: (+571) 234 5190
Email: investors@ecopetrol.com.co

Media Relations (Colombia)
Jorge Mauricio Tellez
Telephone: + 571-234-4329
Email: mauricio.tellez@ecopetrol.com.co

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SOURCE Ecopetrol S.A.

WASHINGTON, Aug. 3, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — NASA astronauts Robert Behnken and Douglas Hurley will discuss their recently completed SpaceX Demo-2 test flight mission to the International Space Station during a news conference at 4:30 p.m. EDT Tuesday, Aug. 4.

The news conference from NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston will be broadcast live on NASA Television and on the agency’s website.

This will be a virtual event with no media present, due to the safety restrictions related to the ongoing coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. Reporters who wish to participate by telephone must call Johnson’s newsroom at 281-483-5111 to RSVP no later than 2:30 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 4. Those following the briefing on social media may ask questions using the hashtag #AskNASA.

SpaceX’s Crew Dragon, carrying Behnken and Hurley, splashed down at 2:48 p.m. Sunday under parachutes in the Gulf of Mexico, off the coast of Pensacola, Florida, and was successfully recovered by SpaceX. After returning to shore, the astronauts immediately flew back to Houston, where they were greeted by their families and invited guests – including NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstine and SpaceX Chief Engineer Elon Musk – at a welcome home ceremony.

NASA’s SpaceX Demo-2 test flight launched May 30 from the agency’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Nearly 19 hours later, Crew Dragon docked to the forward port of the International Space Station‘s Harmony module May 31.

Behnken and Hurley contributed more than 100 hours to scientific experiments and participated in numerous public engagement events during their 62 days aboard the station. Behnken conducted four spacewalks with Expedition 63 Commander and NASA colleague Chris Cassidy to upgrade two power channels on the station’s truss with new lithium-ion batteries. Overall, the astronaut duo spent 64 days in orbit, completed 1,024 orbits around Earth and traveled 27,147,284 miles.

This was SpaceX’s final test flight and will provide data about the performance of the Falcon 9 rocket, Crew Dragon spacecraft and ground systems, as well as in-orbit, docking, splashdown, and recovery operations. The data will inform NASA’s certification of the SpaceX crew transportation system for regular flights carrying astronauts to and from the space station. SpaceX is readying the hardware for the first rotational mission, which is scheduled to occur following NASA certification. NASA astronauts Michael Hopkins, Victor Glover, Jr., and Shannon Walker, as well as Soichi Noguchi of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), are assigned to the first operational flight of Crew Dragon and spend six months aboard the station.

NASA’s Commercial Crew Program works with the U.S. aerospace industry to develop safe, reliable, and cost-effective crew transportation systems that will carry astronauts on American rockets and spacecraft from American soil to the International Space Station, and back. A successful Commercial Crew Program could allow for additional research time and increase the opportunity for discovery aboard humanity’s testbed for exploration, including helping us prepare for human exploration of the Moon and Mars.

Follow updates on the Commercial Crew Program at:

https://blogs.nasa.gov/commercialcrew/

Follow Hurley on Twitter and Instagram and Behnken on Twitter.

Download b-roll and additional video content at:

http://images.nasa.gov

Get the latest space station news, images and features on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter.

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SOURCE NASA