American Journal of Technology and Applied Sciences
American Journal of Technology and Applied Sciences is an peer reviewed international, open access journal. This journal publishes the articles in the field of Technology and Applied Sciences. Authors are requested to submit their original research for the double blind peer reviewed journal. ISSN (E): 2832-1766 JIF 2024: 9.115
FORMATION OF INFORMATION MODELING COMPETENCE IN THE PROCESS OF PHYSICS EDUCATION
The rapid development of information and communication technologies has significantly transformed educational practices, particularly in science education. One of the essential competencies required in modern education is information modeling competence, which enables learners to represent, analyze, and interpret physical phenomena through various models. This article examines the formation of information modeling competence in the process of physics education. The study explores theoretical foundations, pedagogical approaches, and digital technologies that support the development of modeling skills among students. Special attention is given to computer simulations, virtual laboratories, mathematical modeling, and problem-based learning as effective tools for enhancing students’ understanding of physical concepts.
Information modeling, physics education, modeling competence, digital technologies, computer simulation, scientific literacy, problem-based learning.
Copyright (c) 2026 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
THE ROLE OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE IN IMPROVING CARDIOVASCULAR FUNCTION
This article analyzes the role and importance of artificial intelligence (AI) in improving the functioning of the cardiovascular system. It highlights the application of AI technologies in the field of cardiology, particularly in early disease detection, accurate diagnosis, real-time monitoring, and the development of personalized treatment strategies. Furthermore, the study examines how AI can process large volumes of medical data and predict the risk of cardiovascular diseases, thereby enhancing the effectiveness of preventive measures. The article also discusses the role of AI-based systems in improving the quality of healthcare, along with the challenges associated with their implementation, including data security, privacy, regulatory compliance, and the need for specialized training of medical professionals.
Artificial intelligence (AI), cardiology, cardiovascular diseases, early diagnosis, medical imaging, predictive models, cardiac monitoring, wearable devices, personalized treatment, healthcare technologies, data analysis, prevention, digital medicine.
INTEGRATION OF DISCIPLINES IN TEACHING CHEMICAL BONDING AND VALENCE IN ATOMIC PHYSICS
The interdisciplinary integration of scientific subjects has become an important approach in modern education, enabling students to develop a holistic understanding of natural phenomena. This article examines the integration of physics and chemistry in teaching chemical bonding and valence within the context of atomic physics. The study explores how concepts of atomic structure, electron configuration, quantum mechanics, and electromagnetic interactions provide a physical basis for understanding chemical bonds and valence. Particular attention is given to interdisciplinary teaching methods that connect theoretical knowledge from physics and chemistry, promoting deeper conceptual understanding and scientific literacy.
Interdisciplinary integration, atomic physics, chemical bonding, valence, science education, quantum mechanics, electron configuration, scientific literacy.
NEGATIVE AND POSITIVE EFFECTS OF USING AN ELECTRONIC DIGITAL SIGNATURE
This article analyzes the role of electronic digital signature (EDS) technology in the modern process of information exchange, as well as its legal, economic, and technical aspects. The research highlights the positive impacts of EDS, such as the acceleration of document workflow, ensuring confidentiality, and the efficiency of remote services. At the same time, negative consequences associated with the use of EDS, including the risks of cyberattacks, theft of private keys, and dependence on technical infrastructure, are systematically demonstrated. The article concludes with practical recommendations for enhancing system security.
Electronic digital signature, information security, cryptography, electronic document management, cybersecurity, remote authentication, identification, digital economy.
USE OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF AUTOMATED INFORMATION SYSTEMS
This article examines the theoretical and practical aspects of applying artificial intelligence (AI) technologies in the creation of modern automated information systems (AIS). It analyzes the impact of AI algorithms on data processing speed, decision-making accuracy, and the adaptive characteristics of these systems.
Artificial intelligence, automated systems, machine learning, neural networks, Big Data, cybersecurity, digital economy.
DEVELOPING PRACTICAL COMPETENCE IN PHYSICS LABORATORY INSTRUCTION THROUGH MULTIFUNCTIONAL PROFESSIONALLY ORIENTED TASKS: A COMPETENCY-BASED DIDACTIC MODEL
This article presents a scientifically enriched and methodologically updated model for developing students' practical competence in physics laboratory instruction through a system of multifunctional professionally oriented tasks. The study reinterprets the physics laboratory not as a procedural space where students mechanically reproduce a prescribed experiment, but as a competence-forming learning environment in which theoretical knowledge, measurement culture, data analysis, professional reasoning, evidence-based conclusion-making and reflective self-assessment are integrated into a single didactic cycle. The proposed approach structures laboratory work through preparation, admission to the experiment, experimental performance, data processing, defense of results and reflection. Multifunctional tasks are designed to activate conceptual understanding, practical application, analytical comparison, modelling, evaluation and transfer of knowledge to engineering contexts. The article substantiates the pedagogical value of professionally oriented tasks in connecting physics concepts with real technical situations, improving students' autonomy, and strengthening the methodological culture of laboratory learning. A competency-based didactic model, assessment evidence, and a pedagogical-didactic matrix are proposed for implementation in technical higher education institutions.
Physics laboratory instruction; practical competence; professionally oriented tasks; multifunctional tasks; competency-based education; didactic support; experimental learning; reflective assessment; engineering thinking; evidence-based learning.
THE ROLE OF TET2 MUTATIONS IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF CHIP-ASSOCIATED ATHEROSCLEROSIS
TET2 (Ten-Eleven Translocation 2) mutations are among the most common in CHIP (Clonal Hematopoiesis of Indeterminate Potential) and the most clinically significant in cardiology. Loss of TET2 function leads to hyperactivation of the NLRP3 (NOD-like receptor family pyrin domain containing protein 3) inflammasome in macrophages and overproduction of the interleukins IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α, which causes chronic vascular inflammation. This inflammation contributes to endothelial dysfunction, the formation of unstable atherosclerotic plaques, and increases the risk of myocardial infarction and stroke by 2–4 times. Given these findings, it is suggested that CHIP can be considered a new independent risk factor for atherosclerosis, and patients with TET2-mutant CHIP may be the best candidates for therapy with IL-1β inhibitors.
CHIP, TET2, NLRP3 inflammasome, myocardial infarction, atherosclerosis, cardiovascular disease.
INFORMATION AND LEGAL RELATIONS OF THE E-STATE IN THE CONCEPT OF E-GOVERNMENT
This article analyzes the essence, structure and features of the information and legal relations that arise within the framework of the concept of e-government. In the E-state system, the legal basis of information exchange, the mechanisms of digital interaction between state bodies, citizens and economic entities are considered. The state and improvement directions of the regulatory framework regulating information security, protection of personal data and the activities of State Information Systems are established.
e-Government, E-State, Information and legal relations, digital transformation, information security, personal data, public services, digital law.
SCHEMATIC ORGANIZATION OF THE SCIENTIFIC POTENTIAL OF PROFESSORS AND TEACHERS THROUGH TALENTED STUDENTS
This article will consider the issues of schematic Organization of the scientific potential of gifted students and professors in higher education institutions as an interconnected system. The concept of a gifted student, its role in scientific activity and its interaction with the scientific potential of a professor are analyzed. Organizational schemes, models and mechanisms are proposed that serve to develop scientific potential. In the higher education system of Uzbekistan, effective ways of organizing scientific potential through talented students are based.
Talented student, scientific potential, faculty, research activities, mentor-mentee relations, schematic organization, intellectual capital, Scientific School, student scientific circle, multi-level cooperation model.
DEVELOPING MECHANISMS FOR DEVELOPING THE TOURISM INDUSTRY BASED ON ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE
This article examines the mechanisms for developing the tourism sector based on artificial intelligence technologies. It highlights the role of artificial intelligence in tourism systems, particularly in data analysis, the provision of personalized services, and the improvement of service quality through chatbots and intelligent recommendation systems. The study also emphasizes the importance of artificial intelligence in effective tourism management, forecasting tourist flows, and the rational use of resources. In addition to outlining the advantages of implementing these technologies, the article analyzes existing challenges and explores the prospects for the application of artificial intelligence in the tourism industry of Uzbekistan.
Artificial intelligence, tourism, digital technologies, intelligent systems, chatbots, recommendation systems, data analysis, forecasting, personalized services, tourism management.
METHODOLOGY FOR DEVELOPING PRACTICAL COMPETENCIES OF STUDENTS IN TEACHING THE DISCIPLINE "COMPUTER NETWORKS" BASED ON THE INTEGRATION OF GENERATIVE ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE AND CISCO PACKET TRACER
Today, the use of digital educational technologies and tools in the higher education system is one of the main means of improving learning efficiency. This article proposes a methodology for developing students' practical competencies based on the integration of generative artificial intelligence tools and the Cisco Packet Tracer software environment in teaching the discipline "Computer Networks." The article analyzes the capabilities of modern digital educational technologies. Mechanisms have been developed for forming individual assignments during the lesson using generative AI, automatic analysis of network configurations, and conducting practical laboratory classes. The experimental results showed that the proposed methodology significantly improves students' practical skills, develops their ability to work independently, and enhances their competencies in configuring network devices.
Generative AI, Cisco Packet Tracer, network devices, virtual laboratory, AI-assisted learning, digital education system.
PREPARATION OF MODERN PRESENTATIONS IN THE EDUCATIONAL PROCESS, OPPORTUNITIES AND PRACTICAL APPROACHES
This article examines the theoretical foundations and practical significance of preparing modern presentations in the educational process. The impact of multimedia presentations on the quality of education is analyzed, and the possibilities of creating an interactive and visual learning environment using various digital tools are explored. During the research, a survey was conducted among students and teachers, and a comparative analysis of the effectiveness of modern presentation software (Microsoft PowerPoint, Canva, Prezi, Google Slides), was carried out. The article provides practical recommendations on design principles, data visualization methods, and improving pedagogical competence in the preparation of presentations.
Modern presentation, multimedia education, visualization, digital pedagogy, presentation tools, educational technologies, interactive learning, Canva, PowerPoint, Prezi.
MODERN TYPES OF DATABASE MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS AND THEIR CAPABILITIES
This article analyzes the modern types of database management systems (DBMS), their architectures and core capabilities. Various paradigms such as relational, NoSQL, NewSQL, graph-oriented, object-oriented and time-series databases are comparatively examined. The strengths, application domains, and limitations of each type are described. Contemporary trends including cloud computing integration, distributed architecture, and artificial intelligence embedding are also discussed. The research findings can serve as a practical guide for database architects and software engineers in selecting the optimal DBMS.
Database management system, relational DBMS, NoSQL, NewSQL, graph database, distributed systems, cloud computing, CAP theorem, sharding, replication.
METHODS FOR SOLVING ECONOMIC PROBLEMS USING ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE
This article analyzes methods for solving economic problems using artificial intelligence technologies. In particular, important areas such as economic forecasting, reducing production costs, risk management in the banking and financial system, determining market demand, and analyzing the labor market are highlighted. The article describes in a scientific manner the role of artificial intelligence in the modern economy, its practical significance, and its role in increasing economic efficiency.
Artificial intelligence, economics, economic forecasting, market analysis, banking system, digital economy, labor market.
DATABASE MODELS AND THE ENTITY-RELATIONSHIP MODEL
This article analyzes the types of data models that form the basis of database management systems (DBMSs) and their principles of operation. In particular, the components of the Entity-Relationship (ER) model, which is the first and most important stage of database design, the attribute hierarchy and logical relationships between objects are discussed in detail. The article shows the importance of models in reducing errors and ensuring data integrity during the design process.
Database, Relational model, ER-model, Entity, Attribute, Relationship, SQL, Data hierarchy, Database design.
Qahramonova Mushtariybonu Abdurahmon qizi
METHODS AND APPLICATIONS OF USING ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE IN SOLVING PROBLEMS OF THE DIGITAL ECONOMY
This article will study the theoretical foundations, practical methods and areas of application of the use of artificial intelligence technologies in solving current problems in the field of digital economics. The application of artificial intelligence is analyzed in the areas of financial analysis, trade, production, agriculture and public administration. In Uzbekistan's digital economy, artificial intelligence opportunities and application barriers are assessed. Practical recommendations for accelerating national digital transformation will be developed.
Artificial intelligence, digital economy, machine learning, natural language processing, big data, neural networks, digital transformation, economic forecasting, automation.
INFORMATION SYSTEMS AND SOFTWARE IN DATABASE CREATION
This work analyzes the theoretical and practical foundations of database formation, the structure of information systems, and the modern software used to manage them. The role of relational and non-relational databases in the processes of systematizing, storing, and processing data is highlighted, along with issues of enhancing the security and efficiency of information systems. The research results include recommendations for the correct selection of software solutions in database design.
Database, information systems, software, DBMS (Database Management Systems), SQL, NoSQL, data architecture, design.
DATABASE MANAGEMENT AND ANALYSIS WITH THE HELP OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE
This article discusses in detail the role of artificial intelligence technologies in database management and data analysis. In modern information systems, the processes of storing, processing, and efficiently using large volumes of data are becoming increasingly complex, making the use of artificial intelligence highly important. The article explains the concept of databases, their main functions, and database management systems, while also analyzing major areas of artificial intelligence such as machine learning, neural networks, and expert systems. In addition, the possibilities of automatic database optimization, rapid data processing, error detection, security enhancement, forecasting, and effective analysis of large-scale data using artificial intelligence are examined.
Artificial intelligence, database, data management, data storage, data processing, data analysis, information systems, machine learning, neural networks.
INFORMATION, ITS TYPES, PROPERTIES AND UNITS OF MEASUREMENT
This article provides a comprehensive overview of the concept of information, its main types, key properties, and units of measurement. The fundamental properties of information-reliability, completeness, relevance, clarity, and accuracy-are discussed with special attention. The importance of these properties for the effective use of information is substantiated. In addition, issues related to measuring information are examined, and units such as bit, byte, kilobyte, and megabyte, as well as their relationships, are explained. This article serves as an important resource for studying the theoretical foundations of working with information and understanding modern information technologies.
Information, internet, message, data, computer, analog, discrete, digital
DATABASE MODELS AND ESSENCE-COMMUNICATION MODEL
This article provides a comprehensive analysis of the main database models — hierarchical, networked, relational, object — oriented, and NoSQL models. Also, the concept of the essence-communication (MA) model, its main components, practical methods of constructing a diagram and the rules for transferring to a relational scheme are covered in detail. The article is intended for students, programmers and database engineers.
Database, MB model, relational model, essence-communication model, ER-diagram, normalization, SQL, NoSQL.
COMPARATIVE EVALUATION OF EMERGING TCHNOLOGY ADOPTION FOR WORKPLACE SAFETY IN MANUFACTURING COMPANIES IN NIGERIA, CHINA AND USA
This paper compared the adoption of emerging technologies for workplace safety in manufacturing industries across Nigeria, China and USA. Six emerging technologies were explored. Technological, and Organizational factors were used to express adoption determinant factors. Cross-sectional research design was adopted. Stratified random sampling technique was used. Sample sizes were 449, 440 and 345 for USA, China, and Nigeria respectively determined using Taro Yamane’s sample size determination formula. Data were collected using checklist and structured questionnaire based on 2-point and 5-point Likert scale respectively. SPSS version 24 was used for data analyses; percentages and weighted mean scores (WMS) were computed using descriptive statistics. Results revealed that availability of emerging technology was high in China (84.86%) and USA (87.86%) and low in Nigeria ((24.64%), emerging technology adoption was high in USA (WMS=4.46>3.00) and China (WMS=4.26>3.00) and low in Nigeria (WMS=2.94<3.00). The determinant factors were predominant in China (WMS=4.32 and 4.24 >3.00) and USA (WMS=4.53 and 4.57>3.00) but moderate in Nigeria (WMS=3.13 and 3.21 > 3.00). it was concluded that, emerging technology adoption is dominate and high in developed countries like USA and China due to improved technological and organizational infrastructures and readiness and low in developing countries due to lack of technological and organizational infrastructures. Hence. stakeholders in manufacturing sector in developing countries like Nigeria should provide infrastructure and regulatory framework required to meetup with the required standard and level of emerging technology for workplace safety in the manufacturing sector.
Emerging Technology, Adoption, Workplace Safety, Manufacturing Companies Nigeria, China And USA.
INVESTIGATION OF IMPROVING WEAR RESISTANCE AND SERVICE LIFE OF DIES BASED ON MODERN TECHNOLOGIES
This study investigates methods to enhance the wear resistance and service life of stamping dies used in automotive sheet metal forming, with a focus on galvanic cobalt alloy coating technology. Die wear represents a critical problem in modern manufacturing, directly affecting part quality and production costs. Experimental research was conducted using SKD 11 (Japanese) die steel coated with galvanic cobalt alloys at various electrolyte temperatures (40–70°C) and cathode current densities (60–70 A/dm²). Mathematical regression models were developed to optimize coating hardness and adhesion. Results demonstrate that cobalt coatings applied at 55°C with cathode current density of 60–70 A/dm² achieve the highest wear resistance—approximately 3.5 times greater than coatings deposited at 70°C. Coating thickness of 8–12 μm was found optimal for die surface applications. The implemented technology at Fergana Mechanics Plant reduced die manufacturing costs by 7–10% and extended die service life by 6–8%, generating an annual economic benefit of 27,637,500 UZS.
Die wear resistance, galvanic cobalt coating, stamping dies, surface treatment, wear mechanisms, mathematical modeling
ASSESSMENT OF THE COMPOSITION AND HEALTH RISK LEVEL OF WIELDING FUMES FROM FABRICATION FACILITIES IN PORT HARCOURT
This study assessed the composition and health risk level of welding fumes from fabrication facilities in Port Harcourt. The objectives were to; ascertain the composition and concentration of heavy metals in welding fumes and to examine the cancer and non-cancer health risk of fume through inhalation. Using experimental design, Air samples from fabrication facility in Port Harcourt was obtained using Mini-Vol portable air sampler and analyzed for presence and concentration of heavy metals. Health risk assessment was evaluated based on non-cancer risk using hazard quotient (HQ) and cancer risk using Cancer Risk Index (CRI). The results revealed that the heavy metal identified in the fumes and their concentrations were Iron (1.8935μg/g), Nickel (0.0194μg/g), Zinc (0.0107μg/g), Manganese (0.0132μg/g), Lead (0.2696μg/g), Chromium (0.0089μg/g), Aluminum (0.0071μg/g), Cobalt (0.1803μg/g), Cadmium (0.0854μg/g), Magnesium (0.0064μg/g), Calcium (0.0628μg/g) and Potassium (0.7174μg/g) which are all higher than recommended limits. Non-cancer health risk assessment revealed that non-carcinogenic metals contain in the fumes posed no health risk to the welders (HQ>1.0)) while Cadmium and Chromium posed cancer health risk because their CRI of 1.62×10^(-6) and 1.8×10^(-5) respectively were higher than recommended limit of 1.0×10^(-6). These findings highlight the need for robust enforcement of occupational health and safety regulations aimed at reducing possible health risk concerns associated with welding fume exposure. It was concluded that safeguarding the health and well-being of welders through systemic safety interventions is critical to promoting sustainable occupational health practices in fabrication industries in Port Harcourt.
Health Risk Level, Welding Fumes, Fabrication Facilities, Port Harcourt
REDUCING ROAD CONSTRUCTION COSTS THROUGH THE USE OF LOCAL MATERIALS
This article analyzes the issues of reducing road construction costs through the use of local construction materials. The study examines the economic and environmental advantages of using local gravel, sand, limestone, crushed stone, and recycled asphalt materials. In addition, the paper discusses the reduction of transportation and logistics costs, the implementation of resource-saving technologies, and the improvement of pavement quality through innovative methods. The research results demonstrate that the use of local resources not only reduces the overall cost of road construction but also ensures environmental sustainability.
highways, local materials, asphalt concrete, economic efficiency, construction cost, recycled asphalt, environmental safety, resource saving, innovative technologies.
FOREIGN EXPERIENCE IN THE CONSTRUCTION OF HIGHWAY PAVEMENT
This article studies the foreign experience of highway pavement construction in developed countries and aims to adapt it to our local climatic conditions in order to bring road infrastructure to a new level.
drainage, asphalt concrete, cement concrete, polymer, autobahn, deformation, soil, infrastructure, smart road, seismic, monitoring, structural layer, technology.
IDENTIFICATION OF WATER BODIES AND PREPARATION OF MAPS FOR ASSESSING THEIR CONDITION BASED ON REMOTE SENSING DATA
This article describes the effective use of modern geoinformation and remote sensing technologies to develop a scientific and methodological approach based on satellite data and to test it in practice in order to determine the water availability of agricultural land, as well as to produce thematic water maps based on the MNDWI (Modified Normalized Difference Water Index).
Agriculture, Water Index, Sentinel-2, MNDWI, satellite, water resources, map, ArcGIS, aerial photography, Waterinformation.uz, OpenStreetMap, Esri.
SPATIO-TEMPORAL DYNAMICS OF AIR, WATER AND SOIL POLLUTION IN THE ARAL SEA REGION OF UZBEKISTAN, 2010–2025: DISTRICT-LEVEL TRENDS, JOINPOINT ANALYSIS AND 2030 OUTLOOK
Background. The Aral Sea region of Uzbekistan is exposed to combined air, water and soil pollution that has intensified over the past 15 years. Spatially explicit, temporally resolved descriptions are required for evidence-based environmental policy. Objective. To quantify the 2010–2025 evolution of pollution at district resolution across 25 administrative units of Karakalpakstan and Khorezm, and to derive a 2030 outlook. Methods. Annual PM10/PM2.5, surface-water TDS and CCME WQI, and soil heavy-metal and organochlorine concentrations were compiled. Joinpoint regression identified change-points; Mann–Kendall and Sen's slope tested trends. A no-additional-mitigation 2030 outlook was generated with 95 % prediction intervals. Results. PM10 rose 8–12 % (Moynak +27 %); Amu Darya TDS rose ~50 % to 1.4 g/L; Moynak soil ECe rose 42 %. Regional CPI rose from 0.38 to 0.44 (+15.8 %), with post-2017 acceleration (APC +1.4 %, p < 0.001). The 2030 outlook is CPI = 0.51 (95 % PI: 0.48–0.54), with seven districts in 'high' or 'critical' bands. Conclusions. The region is on a clear deterioration trajectory; targeted, district-resolved mitigation is urgent.
Aral Sea; Karakalpakstan; Khorezm; PM10; Amu Darya salinity; Joinpoint regression; Mann–Kendall trend test; 2030 outlook.
REMAINS OF NANNOPLANKTON DISTRIBUTED IN THE PALEOGENE DEPOSITS OF THE SURKHANDARYA DEPRESSION AND THEIR GEOLOGICAL SIGNIFICANCE
This article analyzes the composition, stratigraphic distribution, and geological significance of nannoplankton remains distributed in the Paleogene deposits of the Surkhandarya depression. It has been demonstrated that nannoplankton identified in Paleocene marine deposits are of significant importance in determining the relative age of strata, performing stratigraphic correlations, and restoring the paleogeographic environment. Furthermore, based on nannoplankton complexes, the relationship between the marine conditions of the Surkhandarya depression during the Paleogene period and the Tethys paleobassine was evaluated.
Surkhandarya depression, Paleocene, nannoplankton, nanofossil, biostratigraphy, paleogene, stratigraphy, paleogeography.
FORMATION OF RADIATION DEFECTS AND STRUCTURAL TRANSFORMATIONS IN QUARTZ CRYSTALS IRRADIATED WITH CHARGED PARTICLES
The paper investigates the gamma-luminescence (GL) spectra of iron-doped Fe quartz crystals irradiated with protons and deuterons. Within the temperature range of 77–155 K, the GL spectrum is characterized by a complex band in the 450–520 nm region. Using the Gaussian deconvolution method, the key components were identified at 470 nm (recombination at E'1-centers) and 490 nm (annihilation of self-trapped excitons). It is established that an increase in beam current density and the mass of incident particles (transition from protons to deuterons) leads to an increase in the intensity of the 470 nm band, which is explained by the enhanced efficiency of displacement and ionization-induced creation of oxygen vacancies. The anomalous intensity behavior in the 77–85 K range is interpreted as the thermal activation of charge carriers from shallow traps, while the sharp decline in emission at 155 K is attributed to thermal quenching according to the Mott-Seitz model. It is shown that the Fe impurity modifies the energy structure of radiation-induced defects and affects their thermal stability.
Quartz, Fe-impurity, proton irradiation, deuterons, luminescence, E'1-centers, self-trapped excitons, thermal quenching.