  An operator deformed quantum algebra is discovered exploiting the quantum
Yang-Baxter equation with trigonometric R-matrix. This novel Hopf algebra along
with its $q \to 1$ limit appear to be the most general Yang-Baxter algebra
underlying quantum integrable systems. Three different directions of
application of this algebra in integrable systems depending on different sets
of values of deforming operators are identified. Fixed values on the whole
lattice yield subalgebras linked to standard quantum integrable models, while
the associated Lax operators generate and classify them in an unified way.
Variable values construct a new series of quantum integrable inhomogeneous
models. Fixed but different values at different lattice sites can produce a
novel class of integrable hybrid models including integrable matter-radiation
models and quantum field models with defects, in particular, a new quantum
integrable sine-Gordon model with defect.
