Promising Hybrid Research Articles

Hybrid Numerical Weather Prediction: Downscaling GraphCast AI Forecasts for Downslope Windstorms

Abstract Preemptively managing electrical circuits during periods of elevated wildfire risk, such as downslope windstorms in complex terrain, necessitates accurate, high-resolution forecasts days in advance. Currently available high-resolution operational guidance is limited with respect to the forecasting period and/or spatial detail it can provide. As a consequence, many public utilities support their own NWP systems, primarily WRF-based, with initial conditions and boundary forcings supplied by operational global models such as the GFS. This study demonstrates pairing Google’s artificial intelligence (AI)-based GraphCast (GC) model, which operates on a 0.25° grid and produces global forecasts every 6 h, with a “last mile” WRF (WRF-LM) downscaling framework to refine GC’s spatial and temporal resolution for utility forecasting needs. We illustrate the potential of this system through a case study involving the December 2021 Marshall Fire windstorm in the Boulder, Colorado, area. Our results suggest that GC-initialized WRF forecasts are competitive with those guided by NCEP and ECMWF operational products, offering a promising hybrid approach for utility weather forecasting. Significance Statement Downslope windstorms are difficult to forecast with small errors potentially affecting the timing, magnitude, and location of concerning winds. Due to the elevated wildfire danger caused by these windstorms, accurate forecasts with lead times greater than 48 h are often needed to allow utilities time to prepare for the de-energization of transmission lines to reduce ignition risk. This paper examines methods of downscaling coarse synoptic-scale forecasts using the downslope windstorm associated with the 2021 Marshall Fire as our case study. A novel aspect of this work is the incorporation of machine learning weather prediction models and downscaling their forecasts using a high-resolution numerical model.

Femtomolar hydrogen sulfide detection via hybrid small-molecule nano-arrays

Early disease diagnosis hinges on the sensitive detection of signaling molecules. Among these, hydrogen sulfide (H2S) has emerged as a critical player in cardiovascular and nervous system signaling. On-chip immunoassays, particularly nanoarray-based interfacial detection, offer promising avenues for ultra-sensitive analysis due to their confined reaction volumes and precise signal localization. Beyond the DNA or protein biomolecules array, this work presents a promising hybrid small molecule nano-array for H2S detection, using the power of dual molecules: a dye for fluorescence emission and a quencher with specific H2S reactivity. Upon H2S interaction, the quenched fluorescence reignites, creating an easily detectable array of bright spots. The molecule nano-array sensor shows exceptional responses to H2S over 8 magnitudes of dynamic range from 1 fM to 0.1 μM, with a remarkable detection limit of 1 fM, just using a 10 μL solution. This H2S detection method has the potential to significantly improve bioassay platforms, and the hybrid small-molecule nano-arrays we developed could be a valuable tool for advancing signaling molecule detection.

Direct democracy in the digital age: opportunities, challenges, and new approaches

This article delves into the evolving landscape of direct democracy, particularly in the context of the digital era, where ICT and digital platforms play a pivotal role in shaping democratic engagement. Through a comprehensive analysis of empirical data and theoretical frameworks, it evaluates the advantages and inherent challenges of direct democracy, such as majority tyranny, short-term focus, polarization, and the spread of misinformation. It proposes the concept of Liquid democracy as a promising hybrid model that combines direct and representative elements, allowing for voting rights delegation to trusted entities, thereby potentially mitigating some of the traditional drawbacks of direct democracy. Furthermore, the article underscores the necessity for legal regulations and constitutional safeguards to protect fundamental rights and ensure long-term sustainability within a direct democracy framework. This research contributes to the ongoing discourse on democratic innovation and highlights the need for a balanced approach to integrating digital tools with democratic processes.

Expression of Genes Involved in Banana (Musa spp.) Response to Black Sigatoka.

This work aimed to evaluate the relative gene expression of the candidate genes psI, psII, isr, utp, and prk involved in the defense response to Black Sigatoka in banana cultivars Calcutta-4, Krasan Saichon, Grand Nain, and Akondro Mainty, by a quantitative real-time PCR. Biotic stress was imposed on 6-month-old plants during five sampling intervals under greenhouse conditions. The psII and isr genes were upregulated for the Calcutta-4- and Krasan Saichon-resistant cultivars, and were validated in this study. For Grande Naine, a susceptible cultivar, there was an early downregulation of the psI, psII, and isr genes and a late upregulation of the psII gene. There was no significant expression of any of the genes for the susceptible cultivar Akondro Mainty. Computational biology tools such as ORFFinder and PlantCARE revealed that the utp gene has more introns and exons and that, in general, cis-elements involved in the response to biotic stress, such as as-1, w-box, and STRE, were detected in the promoter region of the genes studied. Data from this work also support the phenotyping studies of banana cultivars affected by Black Sigatoka in the field. Once validated in promising new hybrids, these genes may be used in marker-assisted selection (MAS) and/or gene-editing techniques.

Hybrid supercapacitor battery-type electrode potential of electrospun PAN-porphyrin CNFs

In this study, electrospun polyacrylonitrile-(5,10,15,20-tetra(4-tert-butylphenyl))-porphyrin nanofibers (PAN-Por NFs) were carbonized to obtain carbonized PAN-Por NF/carbon-felt electrodes (PP2C/CFE), which were then investigated for their performance as battery-type hybrid supercapacitor (SC) electrodes. To the best of our knowledge, the doping of a hybrid SC electrode with (5,10,15,20-tetra(4-tert-butylphenyl)porphyrin has not been previously investigated. Subsequently, a series of physicochemical analyses were conducted, including scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, and polarization optical microscopy. Electrochemical analyses were performed using cyclic voltammetry (CV), galvanostatic charge-discharge (GCD), and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The PP2C/CFE exhibited battery-type characteristics in the CV and GCD tests. From the CV data, the maximum specific capacitance was calculated to be 220 F g − 1 at 0.5 mV s − 1 . At a current density of 0.5 A g − 1 , a specific capacitance of 177 F g − 1 and a specific capacity of 284 mAh g − 1 were calculated from the GCD curve. The highest coulombic efficiency, 110.60%, was observed at 3 A g − 1 . At 0.5 A g − 1 , the maximum energy density was 98.3 Wh kg − 1 , and the power density was 348.6 W kg − 1 . In the cycle-stability test, 50 charge-discharge cycles were performed at 3.5 A g − 1 , resulting in an 88% increase in the specific capacitance value. This study demonstrates, for the first time, that PP2C/CFE doped/carbonized with Por is a promising and improvable hybrid SC battery-type electrode.

Hybrid Microwave/Solar Energy Harvesting System Using 3D-Printed Metasurfaces.

In this study, a hybrid energy harvesting system based on a conventional solar cell combined with 3D-printed metasurface units is studied. Millimeter-scale metasurface units were fabricated via the stereolithography technique, and then they were covered with conductive silver paint, in order to achieve high electric conductivity. The performance of single, as well as two-unit metasurface harvesters, was thoroughly investigated. It was found that both of them produced voltage, which peaks at their resonance frequency, demonstrating efficient energy harvesting behavior in the microwave regime. Then, the metasurface units were connected with a commercially available photovoltaic panel and the performance of the hybrid system was examined under different environmental conditions, modifying the light intensity (i.e., light, dark and shadow). It was shown that the proposed hybrid harvesting system produces a sizable voltage output, which persists, even in the case when one of the components does not contribute. Furthermore, the performance of the hybrid harvester is found to be adequate enough, although optimization of the harvesting circuit is required in order to achieve high efficiency levels. All in all, the presented experimental evidence clearly indicates the realization of a rather promising hybrid energy harvesting system, exploiting two distinct ambient energy sources, namely light and microwaves.

Combining ability studies in desi cotton (Gossypium arboreum L.) genotypes

BackgroundStudies on genetic variation and combining ability are essential tools to employ the suitable breeding programme, particularly for hybrid production, to exploit the heterosis in cross-pollinated crops like cotton. Thus, combining ability studies in desi cotton (Gossypium arboreum L.) was carried out using 13 diverse parents through diallel mating design, evaluating 78 F1 hybrids along with their parents, without reciprocals using Griffing’s and Hayman’s approaches.ResultsGenotypes H 509, AC 3265, AKH 496, and PBN 565 exhibited superior per se performance, indicating their potential use as parents in future breeding programs to develop superior hybrids. The general combining ability (GCA) effect of the genotypes revealed that AC 3097 and AKA 13-SP1 were good general combiners for most traits in this study. Genotypes PBS 1127-SP1, AKH 496, H 509, N11-54–31-32, and AKA 13-SP1 exhibited strong combining ability, contributing to a significant specific combining ability (SCA) effect in seven selected crosses (AC 3265 × PBS 1127-SP1, AKH 496 × H 509, AKH 496 × AC 3097, PBS 1127-SP1 × N11-54–31-32, AC 3216 × AKA 13-SP1, H 503 × N11-54–31-32, and H 509 × AKA 13-SP1) for yield improvement. These crosses showed positive heterosis in a positive direction.ConclusionFrom the present study, five genotypes (AC 3097, AKA 13-SP1, N11-54–31-32, AC 3265, and H 509) were identified as good general combiners for producing hybrids, and seven combinations showed a promising hybrid for future breeding programs.

Товарные качества плодов новых форм груши в условиях предгорной плодовой зоны

Abstract. The need for pear breeding in the foothills of the North Caucasus is associated with the inconsistency of varieties grown in the region, including world standards, with the requirements of modern horticulture. Continuous improvement of the breeding process has led to the creation of new varieties of fruit crops with valuable characteristics and qualities. Currently, pear breeding is actively carried out using classical and modern methods, aimed at creating new sources and donors of valuable traits. As a result of breeding work in our institute, promising pear hybrid forms (2002 year of crossing) with fruits of high commercial quality have been identified. The data of the analysis of the commercial qualities of fruits for 2020-2023 are presented. The largest fruits are marked in two combinations Talgarskaya krasavitsa (free pollination). In the first variant, Talgarskaya krasavitsa (free pollination / working name – Zul’fira/), the average fruit weight was 509 g, and the largest reached 637 g. In the second variant of the Talgarskaya krasavitsa combination (free pollination / working name – Chegemskaya/), the average fruit weight was 258,2 g, and the largest weighed 323,5 g. The content of vitamin "C" in pear fruits is small, and therefore the pear cannot serve as a source of ascorbic acid. The variation of this indicator was noted in the range of 4,0...6,0 mg/100 g. The largest number of them in the Talgarskaya krasavitsa form (free pollination / Chegemskaya/) is on average 6,0 %, and this variety also has a higher sugar content – on average 11,6 %. The presented varieties show a high degree of adaptation to the specific weather conditions of the region. Despite the prevailing meteorological conditions, they mature physiologically, accumulate a sufficient number of chemical components that contribute to the formation of fruits with good dessert taste qualities. As a result, they can not only replenish the zoned assortment, but also are of undoubted interest for further breeding work. Key words: pear, varieties, commercial qualities, fruit weight, biochemical composition

Genetic analysis and hybrid performance of recommended cocoa (Theobroma cacao L.) clones for bean yield in Ghana

Abstract Attempts to develop high yielding varieties in Ghana have mostly relied on the introduction of new clones to broaden the range of planting materials for yield improvement. The objective of this study was to estimate the genetic variation and heritability for bean yield of six recommended cocoa clones using these as males in crosses with five seed garden parents. Twenty-four families obtained from a 5 × 6 North Carolina II (NC II) incomplete factorial mating design together with 19 high yielding single crosses, of which four were standard mixed hybrids, were planted in a randomized complete block design with four replications and evaluated for bean yield over 6 years. To account for the serial correlation among yield data collected from the same plants over years, six models with different covariance structures were tested. The general covariance model emerged appropriate based on Akaike information criterion values with significant (P < 0.01) family × year interaction. Average bean yield was highest in the NC II families followed by the specific crosses then the standard mixed hybrids. Combining ability analysis among the NC II was significant for female, male and female × male interaction along with a narrow-sense heritability of 0.26. Clone CRG 6035 among the males which had good general combining ability could be added to the seed garden parents, while the promising hybrids (NA 33 × SCA 9, SCA 6 × Pound 10, T60/887 × PA 121 and T79/501 × CRG 6035/103) undergo stability tests before release.

N-Aryl Benzimidazole and Benzotriazole Derivatives and Their Hybrids as Cytotoxic Agents: Design, Synthesis and Structure-Activity Relationship Studies.

The era of chemotherapy began in the 1940s, which is the basis of traditional antitumor approaches and, being one of the most high-tech treatment methods, is still widely used to treat various types of cancer. A promising direction in modern medicinal chemistry is currently the creation of hybrid molecules containing several pharmacophore fragments of different structures. This strategy is successfully used to increase the therapeutic efficacy of cytotoxic agents and reduce side effects. In this work, we synthesized 10 1-aryl derivatives of benzimidazole and benzotriazole and 11 hybrids based on them. Among the compounds obtained, the most promising hybrid molecules were diphenylamines, containing an amino group and a benzotriazole cycle in the ortho position to the bridging NH group, which showed significant cytotoxic activity, excellent antioxidant properties and the ability to suppress the migration activity of tumor cells. Taken together, our results demonstrate that substituted diphenylamine-based bipharmacophoric compounds may serve as a promising platform for further optimization to obtain effective antitumor compounds.

Assessment of Combining Ability and Heterosis for Seed Yield and its Attributes in Sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.)

The present study employed three lines and fifteen testers to assess the combining ability and standard heterosis of forty-five hybrids developed through a line × tester mating design. The analysis of variance for combining ability revealed significant variation in the mean sum of squares of parents, testers and the interaction between lines and testers regarding seed yield per plant and its related traits. Among the parents, testers GMU 498 and RHA 378 exhibited superior performance for seed yield/plant. In the hybrids, COSF 6A×CSFI 1862, HA 89A×GMU 1000 and HA 89A×RHA 378 demonstrated significantly better seed yield per plant compared to the checks. The variance for specific combining ability (SCA) exceeded that for general combining ability (GCA), indicating that all traits were governed by non-additive gene action. Among the lines, COSF 12A was identified as a good general combiner for yield-contributing traits, while the testers CSFI 1862, GMU 1000 and GMU 498 were recognized as good general combiners for seed yield per plant. Five hybrids, namely HA 89A × RHA 378, HA 89A × GMU 1000, COSF 12A × CSFI 1855, COSF 6A × CSFI 1862 and COSF 12A × GMU 311, exhibited significantly positive SCA for seed yield per plant. Heterosis over the standard checks (DRSH 1, COH 3 and GK 2002) was estimated and the hybrids HA 89A × GMU 1000 and COSF 6A × CSFI 1862 showed positive significant heterosis for seed yield per plant and related traits. The promising hybrids HA 89A × GMU 1000, HA 89A × RHA 378 and COSF 6A × CSFI 1862 were selected based on their mean performance, SCA effects and standard heterosis for seed yield per plant and its attributes.

Investigation of combining ability and heterosis in sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L) Moench] genotypes under moisture stress areas

The most important prerequisite in sorghum crop improvement is the identification of suitable parents that can combine well and produce superior hybrids. However, a narrow genetic base, lack of potential hybrids and lack of information on the genetic components are the most important limiting factors for sorghum yield improvement. Therefore, the experiment was conducted to estimate the combining abilities and heterosis for yield and agronomic traits. A total of 42 sorghum genotypes were evaluated using an alpha lattice experimental design with two replications at Mieso and Kobo during the cropping season of 2019. Combined analysis of variance revealed highly significant differences due to genotypes for days to flowering, plant height, days to maturity, effective productive tillers, panicle exersion, panicle length, panicle width, panicle yield, grain yield and thousand seed weight traits. Based on general combining ability analysis, inbred lines P-9505 and P-9534 were identified as the best general combiners for both days to flowering and plant height traits; whereas inbred lines P-9501 and B5 were identified as the best general combiners for stay green traits. The hybrid crosses P-9534 x Melkam, B6 x ICRS-14 and MARC3 x Melkam were identified as the best specific combiners for grain yield, while the hybrid TX-623 x ICRS-14 was the best specific combiner for days to flowering, days to maturity, panicle length, panicle width and thousand-seed weight. The estimates of general and specific combining ability revealed the preponderance of non-additive gene action since the ratio of general combining ability to specific combining ability was less than unity for all the traits under study except for plant height. The maximum grain yield was obtained from the hybrids P-9534 x Melkam (6.32 tha-1), followed by the hybrids B6 x ICRS-14 (5.92 tha-1), TX-623 x ICRS-14 (5.88 tha-1), P9511 x Melkam (5.78 tha-1) and P-850341 x ICRS-14 (5.57 tha-1). Among the hybrids, B6 x ICRS-14 exhibited (112.41 %) yield advantage over the mid parents, hybrid TX-623 x ICRS-14 exhibited (68.71 %) yield advantage over the better parent, whereas P-9534 x Melkam exhibited (30.71 %) yield advantage over the standard check for grain yield. Finally, based on the mean yield performance, heterosis response and combining ability estimates for grain yield and its components, the hybrid crosses P-9534 x Melkam, B6 x ICRS-14, TX-623 x ICRS-14, MARC3 x Melkam, MARC3 x ICRS-14, P9511 x Melkam and P-850341xICRS-14 were found to be the most promising and potential hybrids that could be exploited commercially after critical evaluation for their superiority and yield stability across locations over the years.

Modifying d–p orbital hybridization of Ni/Fe[sbnd]O species by high-valence ruthenium doping to enhance oxygen evolution performance

The electron distribution of catalysts can be modulated by high-valence metal doping, thus enhancing the intrinsic activity. Herein, we adopt Ru modification to adjust the d–p orbital hybridization of Ni-Fe oxyhydroxides, significantly increasing the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) activity. The amorphous NiFe0.5Ru0.1OxHy catalyst synthesized by sol–gel method exhibits excellent OER activity, far superior to commercial RuO2. In situ Raman and XPS results confirm that the NiOOH/FeOOH active species gradually form with increasing applied voltage. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations reveal that high-valence Ru dopants can effectively regulate the hybridization of d–p orbital of Ni/FeO, significantly increase the electron density around Fermi level, promote charge transfer, make them have more anti-bonding orbitals, enhance the binding ability of active sites to intermediates, reduce the reaction energy barrier of the rate-determining step (H2O → *OH), and thus improve the OER activity. In addition, NiFeRuOxHy as a cathode catalyst in a rechargeable zinc-air battery shows an outstanding cycle life of 600 h. This study provides a promising hybrid orbital method for designing high-performance OER catalysts for water splitting and rechargeable zinc-air batteries.

ГЕНЕТИЧЕСКИЙ СКРИНИНГ ПЕРСПЕКТИВНЫХ ГИБРИДОВ КАРТОФЕЛЯ РЕСПУБЛИКИ КОМИ

The studies were conducted with the aim of genetic screening of promising selection hybrids of potatoes to identify genotypes resistant to a complex of phytopathogens. The study was carried out at A.V.Zhuravskiy Institute of Agrobiotechnology of Komi Scientific Center of the Ural Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences and Sintol company (Moscow) using the GenExpert reagent kit “Markers of potato resistance genes” (“Syntol”). For the study, 10 markers of genes encoding resistance to potato cancer, golden potato cyst nematode, pale potato cyst nematode, X-virus and Y-virus were selected (genes H1, Gro1-4 were detected using markers TG-689, 57R, N195 and Gro1-4-1, gene Sen1 – using marker NL25, gene Gpa2 – Gpa2-2). The objects of the study were leaves of plants of five potato hybrids undergoing selection testing in breeding nurseries: 2341-265 (Amur × Gala), 2339-8 (Oksania × Gala), 2339-9 (Oksania × Gala), 1992-14 (Udacha × Elmundo), 2000-60 (Colette × FZ 1867). The maximum number of markers (five in each) linked to resistance genes was revealed in samples 2339-8 and 1992-14: TG-689, 57R, N195 and NL25 in both hybrids; Gro1-4-1 marker in 2339-8 and Gpa2-2 in 1992-14. Only the marker of potato wart resistance gene, NL25, was noted in selection number 2341-265. Sample 2339-8 was characterized as a valuable source of R-genes, having in its genome the genes of resistance to golden potato cyst nematode (H1, Gro1-4) and potato wart (Sen1). The genotype of the 1992-14 hybrid, carrying the Gpa2 gene, is recommended for breeding new potato varieties resistant to various types of nematodes.

Transient dynamic cycle evolution and thermodynamic performance analysis of a free-piston engine generator

The free-piston engine generator (FPEG) is a promising hybrid power system. Eliminating the crankshaft mechanism, it features a variable piston dynamic cycle distinct from traditional engines. This paper investigates transient dynamic evolutions, identifies the stable operation zone, and further analyzes thermodynamic performance under various key design parameters. First, a coupled dynamic-thermodynamic model is developed for FPEG. Second, transient dynamic evolutions from start-up to combustion-generation stage are analyzed. The boundaries of operating parameters are identified to ensure the presence of limit cycles for stable operation. Subsequently, the thermodynamic performance is comprehensively evaluated. The indicated power and thermal efficiency improve as load resistance and excess air ratio decrease. The maximum and minimum performance points consistently occur on the overshooting and damping lines, respectively. A lower piston assembly mass and higher design compression ratio are recommended to achieve higher indicated power and thermal efficiency. A lower stroke-to-bore ratio leads to higher indicated power with a slight decrease in thermal efficiency. Additionally, the load coefficient should be adjusted to ensure stable operation according to the design parameters. This paper enhances the understanding of transient dynamic evolutions of the FPEG and provides guidance for prototype design aimed at achieving stable operation and improved output performance.

Qudit-based variational quantum eigensolver using photonic orbital angular momentum states.

Solving the electronic structure problem is a notorious challenge in quantum chemistry and material science. Variational quantum eigensolver (VQE) is a promising hybrid classical-quantum algorithm for finding the lowest-energy configuration of a molecular system. However, it typically requires many qubits and quantum gates with substantial quantum circuit depth to accurately represent the electronic wave function of complex structures. Here, we propose an alternative approach to solve the electronic structure problem using VQE with a single qudit. Our approach exploits a high-dimensional orbital angular momentum state of a heralded single photon and notably reduces the required quantum resources compared to conventional multi-qubit-based VQE. We experimentally demonstrate that our single-qudit-based VQE can efficiently estimate the ground state energy of hydrogen (H2) and lithium hydride (LiH) molecular systems corresponding to two- and four-qubit systems, respectively. We believe that our scheme opens a pathway to perform a large-scale quantum simulation for solving more complex problems in quantum chemistry and material science.

Understanding the roles of Brønsted/Lewis acid sites on manganese oxide-zeolite hybrid catalysts for low-temperature NH3-SCR

Although metal oxide-zeolite hybrid materials have long been known to achieve enhanced catalytic activity and selectivity in NOx removal reactions through the inter-particle diffusion of intermediate species, their subsequent reaction mechanism on acid sites is still unclear and requires investigation. In this study, the distribution of Brønsted/Lewis acid sites in the hybrid materials was precisely adjusted by introducing potassium ions, which not only selectively bind to Brønsted acid sites but also potentially affect the formation and diffusion of activated NO species. Systematic in situ diffuse reflectance infrared Fourier transform spectroscopy analyses coupled with selective catalytic reduction of NOx with NH3 (NH3-SCR) reaction demonstrate that the Lewis acid sites over MnOx are more active for NO reduction but have lower selectivity to N2 than Brønsted acids sites. Brønsted acid sites primarily produce N2, whereas Lewis acid sites primarily produce N2O, contributing to unfavorable N2 selectivity. The Brønsted acid sites present in Y zeolite, which are stronger than those on MnOx, accelerate the NH3-SCR reaction in which the nitrite/nitrate species diffused from the MnOx particles rapidly convert into the N2. Therefore, it is important to design the catalyst so that the activated NO species formed in MnOx diffuse to and are selectively decomposed on the Brønsted acid sites of H-Y zeolite rather than that of MnOx particle. For the physically mixed H-MnOx+H-Y sample, the abundant Brønsted/Lewis acid sites in H-MnOx give rise to significant consumption of activated NO species before their inter-particle diffusion, thereby hindering the enhancement of the synergistic effects. Furthermore, we found that the intercalated K+ in K-MnOx has an unexpected favorable role in the NO reduction rate, probably owing to faster diffusion of the activated NO species on K-MnOx than H-MnOx. This study will help to design promising metal oxide-zeolite hybrid catalysts by identifying the role of the acid sites in two different constituents.

Moisture-triggered hybrid soft actuator and electric generator for self-sensing wearables and adaptive human-environment interaction

As ubiquitous energy available from the human body and surrounding environment, moisture converted into both mechanical and electrical energy simultaneously offers appealing strategies for adaptive self-sensing wearables. However, most energy conversion devices typically achieve only single-form energy conversion. Here, we report an integrated device concept that breaks this limit—a moisture-triggered hybrid soft actuator and electric generator (MTAEG) capable of generating reliable actuation and superior electrical output concurrently. By utilizing printable asymmetric electrodes and hygroscopic polyelectrolyte composite film, we achieve the all-in-one device with hybrid functionalities for effective moisture-energy conversion. The MTAEG demonstrates reversible stable actuation (125° bending angle at 80 % RH) and offers a current density of up to 76.41 μA cm−2, accompanied by a power density of 11.24 μW cm−2. This outstanding electrical performance exceeds that of most reported conventional moist-electric generators, thanks to the optimization of asymmetric electroactive electrodes and the excellent ion-transport ability of the polyelectrolyte composites. Moreover, MTAEGs can be compatibly integrated into arrays for various applications, including bioenergy modules, self-powered tracking/sensing, adaptive personal comfort management, and physical activity monitoring. Such printable MTAEGs with ingenious materials combinations, high-throughput fabrication, and attractive performance offer a promising hybrid platform for self-sensing wearables and adaptive human-environment interaction.

Combining Ability and Gene Action for Grain Yield and Attributing Traits in Maize (Zea mays L.) Subjected to Drought Stress

Background: Maize production is subdued by many impediments that cause yield minimization. Among various biotic and abiotic stress factors, one significant cause of yield reduction in maize is drought stress. Methods: A set of 15 inbreds which were crossed with 3 narrow base testers in line × tester mating design, and resulting 45 F1s along with the parent inbreds and 3 commercial checks were then, in RCBD, subjected to drought stressed and well-watered conditions to assess their genetic worth during spring 2021. Result: The ANOVA unraveled significant mean sum of squares due to lines, testers and line × tester in pooled analysis for all the ten traits. The inbred EI-2188-2 followed by EI-2448 and EI-03-3 contained fair per se performance and significant high GCA effects over the environments for grain yield/plant, proline content and cob length whereas the cross EI-2448-1 × EI-2156 was found most promising hybrid with significant and high SCA effects across the environments regarding grain yield/plant, proline content and cob girth. Prevalence of non-additive type of genetic variance in governing most of the traits suggests adoption of heterosis breeding will be rewarding for improving yield and drought tolerance. Heterotic pooling of the highlighted inbreds and utilization of the superlative hybrids in further breeding programmes for drought tolerance is proposed.

Selection of parental pairs when obtaining F1 hybrids of white cabbage with resistance to the tip burn of the inner leaves

Relevance. During the formation of cabbage heads, under certain conditions, white cabbage is damaged by a burn of the top of the inner leaves of the head, which abroad received the stable name “tip burn”. This disorder is interpreted as a physiological or non-infectious disease, the cause of which is a violation of calcium intake. The disease manifests itself inside the cabbage head, resulting from the interaction of environmental stress factors and the predisposed genotype. The most effective way to combat this disorder is to develop highly tolerant hybrids. This is especially true for the south of Russia, where the stress load on plants is maximum.Purpose of the study – to develop a principle for selecting parental pairs for developing hybrids that are resistant to the tip burn of the inner leaves of a cabbage head, and to identify promising hybrids. Materials and methods. In 2021-2022 in FSBSI "Federal Scientific Rice Centre", in the department of vegetable growing, 45 hybrid combinations obtained on the basis of 10 inbred lines were assessed under field conditions for the trait "burn damage to the inner leaves of the cabbage head." An analysis of the combining ability of lines according to Griffin, and an analysis of the inheritance of the trait according to Heiman were carried out. In 2023, a competitive test of promising hybrids was carried out.Results. In both years of research, 5 lines had negatively stable TCA for burn damage: Ten4270, Yas25p, Bs1f, Agr 82, 270Hn111. SCA of lines is more subject to changes from year to year. The effects of SCA in hybrids due to dominance, epistasis and overdominance in individual combinations significantly influence the manifestation of the trait in the direction of decrease or increase. The principle of selecting parental pairs to develop stable hybrids is based on a combination of lines with a negative SCA value; in some cases, it is permissible to include one line with an average SCA and low SCA. Analysis of genetic parameters according to Heiman confirms the prevalence of non-additive inheritance of the lesion; in unstable forms, the disorder is controlled by dominant polygenes and is highly heritable.