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Despite the growing body of research on social media and its effects on employees, few studies have sought to explain the aims of social media users in firms and the mechanisms that link these to employee creativity. From the perspective of social networks, this study argues that using social media for work and social purposes in an enterprise fosters instrumental and expressive links among employees, which in turn fosters employee creativity. The role of instrumental and expressive social ties as mediators was investigated in this study. Furthermore, this research proposes that tie strength moderates the relationship between instrumental and expressive ties and employee creativity. We reveal that specific types of social media usage, such as work- and social-related usage, lead to employees' instrumental and expressive ties, which promote employee creativity, using a sample of 325 Chinese employees. Furthermore, in our model, an employee's tie strength serves as a second-stage moderator. The findings of this study substantiated most of our hypotheses which also had important theoretical and practical implications and guided scholars in the proper direction for further research.

The rice production system in China is facing challenges, including declining soil fertility and a stagnant rice yield. This study aimed to test whether integrating the return of straw to fields with less power puddling could simultaneously enhance soil fertility and rice yields. Therefore, field experiments were conducted in Heilongjiang Province, a key rice-growing region in China, from 2017 to 2021, using three different planting methods: control group (CK), straw return (SR) and straw return integrated with less power puddling (SR + LP). The results showed that small soil aggregates (particle diameter < 0.25 mm) and soil bulk density were significantly decreased when straw return was integrated with less power puddling. These changes contributed to the preservation of soil structure. Simultaneously, this approach significantly increased soil ammonium nitrogen content from 9.9 to 10.9 mg kg−1, organic matter content from 35.0 to 36.2 g kg−1, available nitrogen content from 140.5 to 147.0 mg kg−1 and available potassium content from 128.6 to 136.8 mg kg−1 at mature stage on average. Consequently, the post-heading stored assimilates accumulation of rice was increased from 6.12 to 6.43 t ha−1, and the nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium accumulation of rice were increased by 7.85 kg ha−1, 1.13 kg ha−1 and 5.68 kg ha−1, respectively. These changes ultimately resulted in a higher 1000 g weight and filled grain rate, providing the foundation for higher yields (an increase from 9.31 t ha−1 to 9.55 t ha−1). Furthermore, this approach also increased the net income for farmers by USD 14 t ha−1. In summary, this study demonstrates that integrating straw return with less power puddling can enhance soil's nutrient supply and retention capacity. This enhancement may boost the absorption and transportation of nutrients, ultimately establishing the groundwork for higher yields and economic benefits by enhancing the 1000 g weight and filled grain rate. Future research should delve deeper into its applicability across different ecosystems and investigate the yield-increasing mechanisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Drawing upon the social cognitive career theory (SCCT), this study tested the social cognitive model of well-being which seeks to explain student life experience i.e., the relationship between positive affect with environmental support available to international students; mediated by cognitive and behavioral factors (self-efficacy expectations, outcome expectations, goal progress), towards the paths of academic satisfaction, and overall life satisfaction. Two hundred and ninety-four international students completed the survey questionnaire. Structural Equational Modelling (SEM) was used to test the overall model, alongside Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) to test the model fitness. The SEM-based path analyses showed that the overall model fits the data well. Moreover, all the hypotheses were supported except for four paths (academic support → academic outcome expectation; academic outcome expectation → academic satisfaction, academic goal progress → life satisfaction; positive affectivity → academic satisfaction). Study findings also support the applicability of the social cognitive model of well-being; specifically, this demonstrates the power of particular predictor variables significant for student satisfaction and well-being. The study adds to the existing literature on the cross-cultural utility of the social cognitive model of well-being. Practical and theoretical implications as well as limitations and future recommendations are discussed at the end. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study aims to explore the factors that influence young green actual consumption behavior (GACB) by examining the relational and technological aspects that are dependent on technology and youth green buying intention (GBI). Additionally, this study endeavors to examine the moderating effect of adolescent green organizational citizenship behavior (OCB) on the association between young consumer GBI and young GACB. Design/methodology/approach: The data for this study was collected from a sample of 282 university students located in the southern region of China. A time lag approach was used in this study, with data being gathered during two separate intervals spaced apart by duration of two months. Findings: The findings of this study demonstrate that both technological and relational factors play a significant role in predicting young consumer GBI, which in turn predicts young GACB. Additionally, the results indicate that GBI is a crucial facilitator in the investigation. Furthermore, the results reveal that young green OCB serves as a significant moderator, enhancing the association between young consumer GBI and young consumer GACB. Originality/value: The present study provides a novel perspective on the examination of how technology and relational factors impact young consumers, offering a deeper understanding of their intentions and actual consumption behavior. The findings of this study offer both theoretical and practical implications for academics, policymakers, senior managers and practitioners, providing valuable insights into the field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Drought is a most prevalent environmental stress affecting the productivity of rainfed wheat and maize in the semiarid Loess Plateau of China. Sustainable agricultural practices such as intercropping are important for enhancing crop performance in terms of better physiological and biochemical characteristics under drought conditions. Enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidant enzyme activities are associated with improved abiotic tolerance in crop plants, however, its molecular mechanism remains obscure. A 2-year field study was conducted to evaluate the influence of intercropping treatment viz. wheat mono-crop (WMC), maize mono-crop (MMC), intercropping maize (IM) and wheat (IW) crops, and nitrogen (N) application rates viz. control and full-dose of N (basal application at 150 and 235 kg ha−1 for wheat and maize, respectively) on chlorophyll fluorescence, gas exchange traits, lipid peroxidation, antioxidative properties and expression patterns of six tolerance genes in both crops under rainfed conditions. As compared with their respective monocropping treatments, IW and IM increased the Fo/Fm by 18.35 and 14.33%, PS-11 efficiency by 7.90 and 13.44%, photosynthesis by 14.31 and 23.97%, C-capacity by 32.05 and 12.92%, and stomatal conductance by 41.40 and 89.95% under without- and with-N application, respectively. The reductions in instantaneous- and intrinsic-water use efficiency and MDA content in the range of 8.76–26.30% were recorded for IW and IM treatments compared with WMC and MMC, respectively. Compared with the WMC and MMC, IW and IM also triggered better antioxidant activities under both N rates. Moreover, we also noted that intercropping and N addition regulated the transcript levels of six genes encoding non-enzymatic antioxidants cycle enzymes. The better performance of intercropping treatments i.e., IW and IM were also associated with improved osmolytes accumulation under rainfed conditions. As compared with control, N addition significantly improved the chlorophyll fluorescence, gas exchange traits, lipid peroxidation, and antioxidant enzyme activities under all intercropping treatments. Our results increase our understanding of the physiological, biochemical, and molecular mechanisms of intercropping-induced water stress tolerance in wheat and maize crops. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Amid China's dynamic economic backdrop, Economic Policy Uncertainty (EPU) and stock market indices hold pivotal roles, this research delves into EPU and its connection with the stock price index (SPI). By uncovering patterns linking these variables, the study aims to provide a nuanced understanding of their relationship. We employ wavelet coherence analysis and a phase difference approach to investigate EPU impact on China's SPI from 2010 to 2020. Through this lens, the interactions between these economic variables are illuminated. Using wavelet coherence analysis, the temporal dynamics of EPU and SPI are explored. The phase difference approach further highlights the temporal alignment of fluctuations, capturing the intricate relationship. The analysis reveals compelling findings. A robust correlation between EPU and the SPI emerges, particularly at low frequencies, underscoring a substantive connection. The phase difference analysis indicates a positive influence of EPU on stock prices, highlighting its impact on SPI. Besides, implications imply EPU shapes stock market behavior, moving beyond mere correlation. A causal link is established, emphasizing EPU's proactive role in influencing stock prices. Bidirectional causation underscores the interdependence of EPU and stock price movements. This research enhances understanding of EPU's effects on stock prices in China. Finally, this study provides important implications for investors, policymakers, and businesses, guiding strategic decisions amid a dynamic economic landscape. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It has been stated that learners who take an active role in their learning are more likely to advance their analytical skills and expand their social connections. However, the process through which learners can expand their social capital is still unexplored. This study employs social cognitive theory to conduct a threefold investigation: (1) determining the impact of learner proactivity on online learner interaction, (2) determining the mediating influence of online learner interaction in the association between learner proactivity and learner social capital; and (3) determining the extent to which perceived peer support (PPS) influences the relationship between learner proactivity and learner social capital. The final sample of 322 respondents from China's Anhui province was employed in this study. The findings of this study, which were driven by a social cognitive theory, reveal that learner proactivity reaps social networks through online interaction, strengthening learner social capital in virtual learning. This study also found that PPS boosted the indirect influence of online learner interaction in the relationship between learner proactivity and learner social capital. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and aims : N nutrition index (NNI) diagnosis and N requirement (Nfr) estimation are essential for accurate N management in the fertirrigation system. However, the NNI after straw retention and the relationships between NNI, Nfr, and relative yield (RY) are all not fully understood. Methods: A three years field trial with three straw incorporation methods (without straw (NI), with straw (SI), and straw-derived biochar incorporation (BI)) and five N rates (0, 150, 225, 300, and 375 kg ha−1) was conducted on drip-irrigated maize in northwest China. Soil NO3−-N content (CN), N recovery efficiency (REN), NNI, Nfr, and grain yield under NI, SI, and BI were compared. Later, the mathematical relationships between NNI, Nfr, and RY were defined. Results: Results showed that compared with NI, the N input during the reproductive stage could be reduced under SI and BI to achieve higher grain yield with NNI increased due to an increase in CN. In addition, Nfr was calculated by dividing N accumulation deficit (NAD) by REN, where a significant linear relationship existed between NAD and NNI (NAD = S(1-NNI)), and the slope of the NAD-NNI regression (S) varied quadratically with days after sowing (DAS). NNI and RY were also related in linear plus plateau functions, and the maximum RY was achieved when NNI was 0.88. Conclusions: Based on patterns of variance, three easily accessible independent variables (DAS, REN, and NNI) were used to create and verify Nfr estimating techniques for generating higher yields in maize under NI, SI, and BI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study is to examine the direct and indirect relationships between empowering leadership (EL), work-family spillover and manager turnover intentions, and to explore the moderating impact of perceived organizational support (POS) on these relationships. The study collected data from 220 participants—middle-level managers and their immediate subordinates working in hotels and tourism-related enterprises in central China. The results highlighted a significant relationship between EL and work-family positive spillover (WFPS) and manager turnover intentions, whereas the mediating effect of work-family negative spillover (WFNS) was found to be insignificant. The results further indicated that POS exerted a significant moderating impact on the association between EL and manager turnover intentions, and a significant mediating impact on WFPS. The study also determined that neither the mediating impact of WFNS nor the relationship between EL and WFNS was affected by POS. The study provides a unique perspective on empowering leadership based on the Conservation of Resources theory, and contributes to the understanding of its effects on manager turnover intentions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Drawing upon broaden-and-build theory, this study examined the influence of positive leadership on employee engagement through the mediating role of employees' state positive affect and the moderating effect of individualism-collectivism orientation in a Chinese cultural context. A sample of 215 valid questionnaires was obtained through a two-wave survey of 48 teams working in central China. Hypotheses were tested by a method of hierarchical linear modelling. The results indicate that positive leadership promotes employees' state positive affect and engagement. State positive affect partially mediates the association between positive leadership and employee engagement. Moreover, a multilevel moderation analysis reveals that collectivism weakens the effect of positive leadership on employees' state positive affect. Theoretical and managerial implications and future directions are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Self-serving leaders satisfy their self-interests at the cost of both employees and organizations, leading to declining organizational competitive advantage and performance. Drawing upon the affective events theory (AET), we constructed and examined a theoretical model of self-serving leadership influencing counterproductive work behavior (CWB), where traditionality plays a significant moderating role through the lens of anger as a mediator. Data were collected in three waves using a survey questionnaire distributed in three industries located in the Southwest district of China. Hierarchical regression analyses were conducted on a sample of 316 employees to test the hypothesized research model. The results showed that self-serving leadership triggers employee anger, which in turn causes CWB. Furthermore, traditionality plays a significant moderating role, in which employees with higher levels of traditionality feel less anger and show less CWB. Overall, research findings have clarified how and why self-serving leadership affects employees' emotions (such as anger) and behavior (such as CWB), bringing new insights into the self-serving leadership and employee behavior literature. Research implications on the management of self-serving leadership, limitations, and future recommendations of research are also discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Leadership research is of interest to academics and practitioners in the construction industry. Based on the ego-depletion theory and authentic leadership theory, the current study aims to investigate the impact of women authentic leadership on leaders' emotional exhaustion and job engagement in the construction industry. Design/methodology/approach: The data were gathered in two waves using a time lag approach. The responses of 276 women leaders-follower dyads from construction firms in China's eastern provinces were analyzed using a moderated mediation model. Findings: Most of the proposed hypotheses were supported by the findings of this study, which showed that authentic leadership can reduce emotional exhaustion in women leaders and increase work engagement through ego depletion. Furthermore, the leader's sense of belonging, according to this study, moderates the mediating effect of ego depletion. Research limitations/implications: This study can help managers, policymakers and human resource professionals think about authentic leadership and its impact on women leaders. Furthermore, ego depletion has an impact on the psychological well-being of authentic women leaders. The sense of belongingness of a leader is critical in buffering the negative effects of ego depletion for women in authentic leadership. Thus, women leaders in construction sector should be encouraged to express a sense of belonging to their followers, since this will improve their work engagement and lessen their emotional exhaustion. Originality/value: This study is unique in that it examines the authentic behavior of women leaders in the Chinese construction sector, which is a challenging profession for women to work in as site managers. This study contributes to the literature on women in leadership by demonstrating how authentic leadership behavior influences the wellbeing and engagement of leaders. In addition, the study indicated that the effect of the mediator (ego depletion) and moderator (leader sense of belongingness) on the relationship between women's authentic leadership and the leader's own psychological wellbeing and job engagement was significant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to explore the impact of abusive supervision on employees' voice in China's construction industry. Moreover, the authors explore the mediating role of ethics-related self-efficacy and work engagement and the moderating influence of psychological climate in explaining the association between abusive supervision and employee voice behavior. Design/methodology/approach: This study used data in pairs collected from 402 supervisors and employees of construction companies in Anhui, China. In this study, the authors used the time-lag approach to collect data in three-time waves from different respondents. A structural equation modeling (SEM) approach was applied to test the hypothesized model. Findings: The results of this study indicate that there is a significant association between abusive supervision and employee voice. Moreover, the results indicated that work engagement mediated the association between abusive supervision and employees' voice. In contrast, self-efficacy did not mediate the link between abusive supervision and employee voice. Furthermore, results also show that the contingent effect of psychological climate significantly influences the mediating effect of work engagement. Originality/value: This study also has implications for the construction industry, allowing managers to create a favorable working atmosphere in which employees can reinforce their voices at work. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the Loess Plateau region of China, winter wheat often undergoes prolonged cloudy days without rain which may affect the grain yield and quality. This study examined the impacts of shading and drought conditions during the grain‐filling period of winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) on photosynthesis, grain yield and quality traits in a greenhouse experiment. The imposed shading and irrigation‐deficit treatments were corresponded with naturally cloudy weather in the rainfed area. Five shading treatments, 15 days shading (SD15); 12 days shading (SD12); 9 days shading (SD9); 6 days shading (SD6); and 3 days shading (SD3), and four irrigation treatments: full irrigation (I100); 75% of full irrigation (I75); 50% of full irrigation (I50); and 25% of full irrigation (I25), were applied after completion of flowering. The results showed that shading during grain filling decreased the grain yield and individual grain weight irrespective of the dry or wet conditions of the soil. Plant height increased with a decrease in shading duration to favour the efficient capturing of light. The reduction in the rate of photosynthesis was noted with an increase in the drought intensity. Shading significantly reduced the grain protein contents and increased the grain starch contents. In conclusion, shading for a long duration (SD15, SD12 and SD9) and drought stress (I25) during the grain‐filling stage significantly decreased the yield and grain quality of winter wheat. The shading of few days without drought (I100: SD3, SD6 and SD9) improved the plant height, photosynthetic activity and increased the distribution of dry matter from vegetative organs to grains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Global health, as well as worldwide development regimes, was seriously threatened by the COVID-19 pandemic and Delta variant outbreaks. In addition to pledging to adapt to and mitigate climate change, experts, economists, and policymakers expressed their determination to do so. Green growth and sustainable development have become the focus of policymakers and governments. The progress toward green economic efficiency (GEE), which will benefit the economy, society, and environment, continues. In terms of green growth and development, implementing environmental regulations and policies has been one of the most challenging aspects of the process. China, the world's second-largest economy, has begun its journey to GEE. Nonetheless, the green economy faces many challenges. The objective of the study is to use AHP analysis to analyze environmental regulation and GEE in China. Accordingly, the study identified three alternative approaches to achieve GEE by analyzing four criteria and ten sub-criteria in the context of environmental regulations in China. The analytical hierarchy process (AHP) has been used to rank criteria, sub-criteria, and alternative approaches. According to the model, China's best path to GEE is through resource efficiency and green purchasing strategies. This article offers an insightful assessment of sustainable development in the Chinese economy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current COVID-19 pandemic emerged in December 2019, in China, affecting millions of people worldwide. COVID-19 is mainly a disease of the respiratory system, yet systematic complications have also been reported among SARS-CoV-2 infected patients. Thrombotic complications are one of the severe clinical outcomes of COVID-19, especially among critically ill patients, and are associated with poor prognosis. To date, many studies have concluded that COVID-19 increases the incidence of thrombotic events and coagulopathies; however, the exact mechanism behind such a disease outcome is not well known. Various pathophysiological mechanisms for thrombotic events in COVID-19 have been proposed, these include virus-induced endothelial cell damage, inflammation, and excess production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. As a result, most critically diseased COVID-19 patients are managed with prophylactic anticoagulant, yet some still develop thrombotic episodes. Therefore, better understanding of the mechanisms behind the thrombotic complications is needed to develop treatments that specifically target such pathways, which may aid in better disease management and improve the prognosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Magnesium (Mg) plays a crucial role in rice yield. Heilongjiang Province is the main rice-producing region of China, playing an important role in guaranteeing China's and the world's grain security. However, rarely Mg fertilization is applied in this province. Soil Mg status of main rice-producing areas in Heilongjiang Province was investigated and Mg fertilizer experiments were conducted aiming to provide fertilizer recommendation in this region. A total of 358 soil samples from the 0–20 cm and 20–40 cm soil layer from the main rice-producing areas of Heilongjiang Province were collected to analyze soil exchangeable Mg (ex-Mg) and relative chemical properties. Meanwhile, field experiments of soil and foliar Mg application were performed in 2017–2019 to identify the effect of this nutrient on rice yield. The results showed that the ex-Mg concentration in the 0–20 cm and 20–40 cm soil layer was 282 mg kg−1 and 243 mg kg−1, respectively. Moreover, ex-Mg ranged on the abundant and exceptionally abundant level accounted for 75% in 0–20 cm and 55.3% in 20–40 cm. The ex-Mg concentration in the upper soil layer was higher than in the lower soil layer and varied depending on regions, which the west part of Heilongjiang Province showed the highest concentration in both soil layers. Correlation analysis showed that there had a significant (P < 0.05) linear relationship between ex-Mg and pH, CEC, ex-K, Ca, K/Mg, and Ca/Mg. Meanwhile, the results of path coefficients demonstrated that pH, CEC, and Ca/Mg had the most direct effect on ex-Mg concentration among these above factors. Soil Mg application had little effect on rice yield, which might be related to the soil Mg concentration and availability, and root uptake activity. Foliar Mg application increased rice yield by 8.45% (P < 0.05) compared to without Mg treatment, increased 1,000-grain weight by 2.62% (P < 0.05), and spikelet number per panicle by 4.19% (P < 0.05). In general, the paddy soil ex-Mg concentration in Heilongjiang Province was abundant. Soil-applied Mg played little role in rice yield in ex-Mg abundant regions, while foliar application increased rice yields significantly via increasing 1,000-grain weight and spikelet number per panicle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

China has become a hub in providing quality higher education to students across the world. Similarly, annually thousands of Pakistani students come to China to pursue their higher studies and face several new problems. Recognizing and suggesting solutions to those problems is now essential for their successful accomplishment. This study investigates the challenges international postgraduate Pakistani students face during their first year of study in NENU (Northeast Normal University), Changchun, China. By employing a qualitative design, 14 Pakistani postgraduate students (10 males and 4 females) were selected through convenient sampling. An in-depth face-to-face interview method was used to collect the data and analyzed through the thematic analysis method. The results revealed that various problems influence newly arrived students' lives; these include food problems, communication problems, weather adjustment, physical and academic issues. Accordingly, the study suggests thatan adjustment period is required that contains Chinese language classes, intercultural programs, and students-support events to facilitate Pakistani international students in adjusting to a new environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study aims to examine the impact of transformational leadership (TL) on employee civic virtue behavior (CVB) by applying social exchange theory. Inconsistent findings from previous studies suggest that the mechanism through which TL contributes to employee's citizenship behaviors is not simple and goes beyond a direct causal relationship. Therefore, the present study introduces two mediators, namely, thriving and emotional exhaustion, to explain the connection between TL and CVB, thus contributing to the literature on civic virtue and leadership. This quantitative study uses a time-lag approach to collect data in two waves at a time interval of three months. The final sample consists of 374 respondents, including employees and their supervisors working in 12 hotels situated in different tourist places in Anhui province of China. Results indicate that TL has a positive impact on CVB. Moreover, emotional exhaustion significantly mediates the link between TL and CVB. Surprisingly, the mediating effect of employee thriving is insignificant in the association between TL and CVB. This research suggests that developing and nurturing a transformational role between managers/supervisors can help in enhancing employees' CVB. Similarly, transformational leaders can reduce employee emotional exhaustion by strengthening employee citizenship behavior. In this regard, different practical measures (i.e., mindfulness training courses) can be arranged to enhance the emotionally centered self-regulation of employees. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to examine the impact of psychopathy on employees' creativity through the mediating role of work engagement and negative socioemotional behavior (NSEB). It also attempts to investigate the moderating effect of abusive supervision on the relationship between psychopathy and work engagement, psychopathy and NSEB. Design/methodology/approach: Data were collected at two-time intervals with a time-lag of three months. The final sample comprised of 267 public sector paramedical staff and supervisors in different hospitals from the southern provinces of China. Findings: The study results show that individuals with a high level of psychopathic tendencies show a higher NSEB. Moreover, abusive supervision simulates negative social and emotional behaviors of those employees with psychopathic tendencies, which inhibit the emergence of novel and useful ideas. Originality/value: This study is distinctive from earlier studies by presenting novel findings that employees with psychopathic tendencies are reactive to abusive supervision. Additionally, this study presents valuable implications and future research directions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the heterogeneous causal linkages between urbanization, the intensity of electric power consumption, water-based pollutant emissions, and GRP in regional China by developing an urbanization-augmented "Stochastic Impacts by Regression on Population, Affluence, and Technology" (STIRPAT) model. A whole country panel of 29 provinces as well as region sub-panels of China, for the period 1999 to 2018, are estimated employing common correlated effects mean group approach (CCEMGA), which offers robustness against heterogeneous characteristics and cross-sectionally dependent series. From the theoretic modeling aspect, the intensity of electric power consumption and urbanization have been introduced as the determinants of water-based pollutant emissions in the STIRPAT modeling framework. Based on empirical results, first, GRP growth has shown appealing behavior in the form of its heterogeneous impacts on water-based pollutant emissions growth in the case of different regions. For instance, its impact is noted to be positive and statistically significant for the western region, which turned positive but statistically insignificant for the intermediate region. And it further turned significantly negative in the case of the eastern region. We call this phenomenon as "development level-based emission mitigation effect." Second, in terms of the impact of GRP growth on urbanization, the "development-based urbanization ladder effect" has been found. Based on heterogeneous causal links, firstly, the existence of a positive bilateral causal link between the intensity of electric power consumption and GRP growth and urbanization and GRP growth has been validated. Secondly, a positive unidirectional causal link emerged from urbanization to the intensity of electric power consumption and water-based pollutant emissions growth. Thirdly, the causal connection between GRP growth and water-based pollutant emissions growth remained very interesting and of mixed nature. Based on empirical findings, useful policies are extended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

China–Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) is a megaproject, which directly and indirectly benefits the local community of two countries, namely, Peoples' Republic of China and Pakistan. The purpose of current research is to investigate the impact of CPEC development on the quality of life of local residents in China and Pakistan. We intend to investigate the perceptions of local community related to CPEC development, as policymakers of both countries argue the CPEC to be equally beneficial for the people of China and Pakistan. To test the proposed hypotheses, we collected primary data through a research survey conducted in Pakistan and China. In total, 410 Chinese respondents and 480 Pakistani respondents were included in the study. Most of the hypotheses were supported in both studies showing the positive attitude of the people of both communities towards CPEC project. Specifically, the perceived impact of CPEC has shown a significant effect on employment and quality of life in both samples. This research provides important suggestions and recommendations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Drawing from cognitive and emotional perspectives, the purpose of this paper is to theorize and test a dual-pathway model in which moral disengagement and anger toward organization act as two explanatory mechanisms of the association between perceived overqualification and employee cyberloafing. The authors further proposed that the strengths of these two mediating mechanisms depend on employee moral identity. Design/methodology/approach: The authors used hierarchical linear modeling to examine the hypotheses by analyzing a sample of 294 employees working in 71 departments in China. Findings: Results revealed that moral disengagement and anger toward organization mediated the positive link between perceived overqualification and cyberloafing beyond the influence of social exchange. Furthermore, moral identity attenuated the association between the mediators (i.e. moral disengagement and anger) and cyberloafing and the indirect relationship between perceived overqualification and cyberloafing. Originality/value: Extant studies have examined the effects of perceived overqualification on employee behaviors in terms of task performance, organizational citizenship behavior, proactive behavior, as well as withdrawal behavior. The study expands this line of research by empirically investigating whether and how perceived overqualification influences cyberloafing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plastic film mulching is a primary cultivation measure in the dryland agricultural areas of northwest China, but comes with the drawback of plastic pollution. To overcome this issue, the biological inoculants such as arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) with nanotechnology might be a critical pathway, but their positive effects on plants are context-dependent and vary with species, application method, concentration, size, surface charge, and other physio-chemical properties. There is so far limited information available on the combined effects of AM fungi with nanoparticles in agriculture. This study aimed to investigate the potential of iron nanoparticles (FeNPs) in combination with AMF regarding wheat productivity maintenance and its driving mechanism. Herein, we used a completely randomized block design for the field experiments in the years 2018 and 2019. We conducted two field experiments using nanopriming of seeds with iron nanoparticles (FeNPs) and AMF in two growing seasons in 2018 and 2019 on wheat (Triticum aestivum L., cv. Longchun29) in the field. Each plot had a 5 m × 5 m total area having 6 rows of 0.2 m spacing and 0.5 m buffer strip among the neighboring plots. There were 8 treatments in the field experiment, and each treatment was repeated 3 times, including four nano iron concentration seed soaking treatments (0 mg L-1, 5 mg L-1, 10 mg L-1, 15 mg L-1) and two inoculation treatments of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (inoculated with Gi and non-inoculated). Combined treatments with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi and iron nanoparticles led to significant increases in wheat biomass and yield across 2018 and 2019. When compared with control treatment there was an increase of 111% in biomass for the year 2018 and a 102% increase was observed for the year 2019; while the increase in the yield percent when compared to control was 91% in 2018 and 85% in 2019 respectively. Water use efficiency for yield (WUE) increased by 92% in 2018 and 57% in 2019. The colonization rate of AMF + FeNPs 10 mg L-1 treatment increased by 223%, 88%, and 211%, respectively compared with control at the jointing, anthesis, and maturity stage in 2018; and increased by 48%, 37%, and 56% respectively in the year 2019. FeNPs at 10 mg L-1 led to small increases in total organic carbon (TOC), total nitrogen (TN), microbial biomass carbon and nitrogen (MBC), and (MBN), in both growing seasons, and AMF inoculation further significantly increased these carbon fractions by 2.6%, 20%, 21% and 26% in 2018; while 1.3%, 14.8%, 12.5%, and 35% in 2019 respectively. The combined treatments of FeNPs and AMF at an optimal concentration (10 mg L-1) significantly increased net economic income by 229% in 2018 and 138% in 2019 when compared to the control. In this study, wheat aboveground biomass and yield and other related parameters have been improved under field trials, which verified that AMF inoculation alongside FeNPs, can play a beneficial role in promoting dryland spring wheat. Taken together, the co-inoculation with FeNPs and AMF displayed a promising perspective in green production with the potential replacement of plastic film mulching in semiarid dryland regions. [Display omitted] • AM fungus (AMF) and iron nanoparticles (FeNPs) were applied in rain fed wheat field. • Co-inoculation led to greater biomass and yield. • Such improvement was derived from better rhizosphere soil water status and uptake. • Both AMF and FeNPs harvested the best economic benefits in two years. • AMF and FeNPs acted as promising approaches to replace plastic film mulching. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research on high‐performance work systems (HPWS) has drawn primarily from social exchange theory and human capital theory to unlock the underlying mechanisms in relation to employee performance. In addition to social exchange and human capital theory, a personal resources perspective can also be used to explain the effects of HPWS. In this cross‐level research, we examined the mediating roles of social exchange and thriving, and the moderating effect of proactive personality in the relationships between HPWS and task performance and organizational citizenship behavior (OCB) by analyzing a sample of 391 employees and 84 supervisors from 21 firms in China. Using multi‐level analyses, social exchange and thriving were found to mediate the effects of HPWS on employee task performance and OCB. Furthermore, proactive personality attenuated HPWS's direct effect on thriving and indirect effects on employee task performance and OCB through thriving. Finally, we discuss theoretical contributions, and practical implications of the study, as well as future research directions. Key points: High‐performance work system (HPWS) can enhance employee performance.The effects of HPWS manifest not only through social exchange but also by contributing to employees' personal resources.Employee proactive personality attenuates the effects of HPWS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Although scholars have suggested that employees often carefully consider social contexts before enacting voice, few studies have explored whether firms foster employee voice behavior by adopting a set of systematic HR practices, namely, high-commitment work systems (HCWS). By integrating the literature on HCWS and voice, the purpose of this paper is to explore the mechanisms of how HCWS utilization influences employee voice. Design/methodology/approach: The authors adopted multilevel analyses with HLM software to examine the research hypotheses. The authors collected data from a sample of 290 employees and 58 line managers from 11 software design and development firms in China. Findings: HCWS utilization positively affected employee-experienced HCWS which enhanced psychological safety and perceived organizational support, and in turn employee voice behavior. In addition, HCWS utilization positively influenced employee-experienced HCWS, and subsequently increased voice efficacy. However, contrary to the expectations, voice efficacy was not related to employee voice. Originality/value: The study is the first to integrate research on HCWS and voice. By building on the theory of planned behavior, the authors provide new insights into the relationship between HCWS utilization and employee voice and inspire researchers to elucidate other explanatory mechanisms in this link. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Aims: Cardiovirus is a genus of viruses belonging to the family Picornaviridae. Here, we used viral metagenomic techniques to detect the viral nucleic acid in the fecal samples from wild rats in Zhenjiang city in China. Method: Fecal samples were collected from 20 wild rats and pooled into four sample pools and then subjected to libraries construction which were then sequenced on Illumina MiSeq platform. The sequenced reads were analyzed using viral metagenomic analysis pipeline. Results: A novel cardiovirus from feces of a wild rat was identified, named amzj-2018, of which the complete genome was acquired. Phylogenetic analysis based on the complete amino acid sequence of polyprotein revealed that amzj-2018 formed a separate branch located between clusters of Saffold virus and Rat Theilovirus 1 (RTV-1). Phylogenetic analysis based on different regions of the polyproteins, including P1, P2, P3, and P2+P3, respectively, showed discordant trees, where the tree based on P3 region indicated that amzj-2018 clustered separately between Theiler's murine encephalomyelitis virus and RTV-1. Conclusion: The complete genome of a cardiovirus was determined from the feces of wild rats which belonged to a novel type of cardiovirus based on phylogenetic analysis. Whether it is associated with disease needs further investigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Current research on leader narcissism has been predominantly centered on the intrapersonal perspective and discusses leader narcissism and associated behavioral outcomes. Few have adopted the interpersonal approach to explore the possible effects that leader narcissism can exert on their followers. Drawing on the social cognitive theory of moral disengagement, the present study aims to examine leader narcissism and followers' outcomes from the interpersonal perspective. We propose that perceived narcissistic supervision will lead to employees' organizational deviance via moral disengagement and that employees' moral identity will moderate the link between perceived narcissistic supervision and employees' moral disengagement; Moreover, there also exists a moderated mediation effect of employees' moral identity. Study 1, a three‐wave study conducted in 10 companies distributed among eight cities in China within 2 months, with a final sample containing 61 supervisors and 228 subordinates, preliminarily supported the main effect and the moderating effect of moral identity. In addition, we conducted a supplementary study on the basis of another three‐wave investigation with a sample of 195 employees, which replicated our research results in Study 1 and also verified the moderated mediation effect. Implications of the model are described, and future research directions are suggested. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nuclear weapons revolutionized security affairs after Hiroshima and Nagasaki annihilation. States went nuclear eventually after the United States, Russia, UK, France and China but India and Pakistan joined that exclusive club too in 1974 and 1998 respectively. Nuclear weapons a source of security motivated Israel, Iran and North Korea too. Another development that started undermining nuclear security itself was cyber warfare. Pakistan being developing country in the list of Global Innovation Index finds it hard to catch up with other leading nations in science and technology. Leading countries including US, Russia, China, UK, Germany, France etc are not safe from cyber-threats they face then how Pakistan can be considered safe against cyber-sabotaging to its strategic weapons. Pakistan's nuclear security though has gained better levels but cyber security is the field that requires comprehensive strategy to establish cyber nuclear doctrine. China being reliable strategic partner can be a resourceful partner unlike other great powers. This strategy would add much security to Pakistan's already existing nuclear security and would open new avenues of cooperation with international organizations to gain next milestone of Nuclear Suppliers' Group membership. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

China's massive initiative of the Belt and Road (BRI) is a gigantic leap that is aiming to connect world's 65%population, 30% of global G.D.P and about sixty eight countries that have signed on to be part of this mega project. The China Development Bank has estimated 900 projects that are worth more than a trillion dollars, underway to accomplish dream of 21st century New Silk Road. China-Pakistan Economic Corridor is the flagship project of BRI, heralded as game changer that will bring prosperity to Pakistan and will turn Gwadar into an economic hub between Africa, West-Asia and South Asia. India opposed China's BRI as well as CPEC to neutralize China's regional and global influence. Modi has shifted from India's Look East to Act-East Policy and introducedMausam and SAGAR projects to counterweight BRI. This paper unfolds reasons of India opposition to BRI as well CPEC by providing readers insights about various Indian foreign policy goals. This paper is an analysis of China's BRI and India's response to contain it. It also highlights the challenges that CPEC is facing due to India intensive diplomatic maneuvers to impede it. The BRI is set to transform China from civilization state to a western style nation state. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study proposed a research model based on the transactional theory of stress and coping to examine the relationship between excessive enterprise social media (ESM) usage and employee creativity. The research model proposed that excessive ESM usage positively influences Techno-overload and technology-family conflict which influence ESM fatigue. Furthermore, ESM fatigue negatively influences employee creativity. The model was tested using a sample of 367 individual employees from the information technology industry in China. Results reveal that excessive ESM usage is significantly related to employees' perceptions of Techno-overload and technology-family conflict which contribute to generating ESM fatigue. Results further reveal that ESM fatigue is negatively related to employee creativity. The contributions of this research to the theory and practice are discussed in the later section. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses the China-Pakistan agreement to restore balance in South Asia. Topics discussed include impact of Sino-Pakistan deep strategic cooperation on India and the U.S.; need of Balance of power between India and Pakistan for peace and stability in the region; consequences of India and the U.S. civil nuclear deal; and similarities between India-U.S. and Sino-Pakistan nuclear deals.

China's involvement in Asian regionalization is a main axis of its foreign policy and a part of China's multilateral strategy which aims at increasing its regional role in Asia and multilateralism in global arena. The engagement with the regional institutions such as SAARC and ASEAN on the one hand facilitate China's role as an effective player in the peripheral politics and on the other hand, maximizes PRC's strategic interest for further regional integration. The article seeks to analyze the main elements of China's engagement with two Asian regional organizations, (SAARC and ASEAN). The comparative analysis over China's behavioral policies towards SAARC and ASEAN leads to the estimation that China has the potential for leadership in Southeast Asia while in South Asia its "voice" is still inaudible. The article argues that China's engagement with SAARC compared to ASEAN is limited due to the games of balance of power in the region of South Asia deriving from the internal contradictions among the members (India-Pak relations), the low level of regionalization in South Asia as well as due to the increased role of other great and regional powers in the region of South Asia such as USA and India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on social cognitive theory (SCT), the present study aimed to investigate the impact of social media addiction (SMA) on employee strain and task performance through work-technology conflict and self-esteem. Furthermore, this study hypothesizes that the moderating influence of self-regulation may buffer the impact of SMA on work-technology conflict and self-esteem. The final sample of this study was 282 employees of Chinese information technology companies from southwest China's Guizhou province. Results demonstrated that SMA significantly affects task performance via work-technology conflict and self-esteem. This study presents some distinctive results by showing that the mediating role of self-esteem is found to be insignificant in the association between SMA and strain. Self-regulation reduces the increased impact of SMA on work-technology conflict and self-esteem. Moreover, this study provides useful insights for practitioners, managers, and future researchers to understand the impact of SMA on employees' mental health and task performance. • Social Media Addiction increases work-technology conflict. • Social Media Addiction negatively impact the Self-esteem of users. • Self-Regulation moderated the link between Social Media Addiction Self-esteem and WTC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: Summer ambient temperature and humidity are major factors negatively influencing the physiology and the productive and reproductive efficiency of dairy cows. Various management and breeding approaches may be useful for maintaining productivity in dairy cows during summer to minimise these effects. Aims: The experiment was designed to test a natural phytochemical supplementation of capsaicin (CPS), followed by a specific oestrus synchronisation protocol as a means to maintain productivity and reproductive performance of Chinese Holstein cows during summer in Hubei province, China. Methods: Lactating Chinese Holstein cows (n = 109) were randomly divided into four groups and supplemented with 0 (control, n = 27), 20 (CPS-20, n = 26), 40 (CPS-40, n = 28) and 60 (CPS-60, n = 28) mg of capsaicin (CPS) per kg of total mixed ration respectively for continuous 30 days initiated on 10 July 2018. Milk production and composition were measured over 45 days from the start of CPS supplementation. After CPS supplementation, all cows were synchronised through a modified Ovsynch oestrus synchronisation protocol, and reproductive variables were recorded. Metabolic parameters were measured on the days before CPS supplementation, artificial insemination (AI) and 50 days post-AI. Key results: Highest (P < 0.05) milk production were found in the CPS-40 group, and highest total solids and milk fat in the CPS-20 and CPS-40 groups. Milk urea nitrogen and milk fat were generally increased in CPS supplemented cows compared with the control group. Significant increases (P < 0.05) in oestrus response, ovulatory follicle size, ovulation rate and pregnancy rates were observed in the CPS-40 group compared with other groups. Glucose, lipoprotein esterase and aspartate aminotransferase were increased (P < 0.05) in CPS-40 and CPS-60 supplemented groups at the time of AI and 50 days post-AI. Conclusions: CPS supplementation has the capacity to maintain milk yield, milk composition and serum metabolites in Chinese Holstein dairy cows during summer. The synergistic effect of CPS and the modified oestrus synchronisation protocol also improved reproductive variables of the cows. Implications: Adoption of CPS as a supplement along with oestrus synchronisation could be a useful and economical strategy for dairy herd keepers to improve herd performance during summer. Over summer, the productive and reproductive performance in dairy cows is reduced because of high ambient temperature and humidity loads. The present study was designed to test for synergistic interaction of natural phytochemical supplementation and a specific oestrus synchronisation protocol on the productive and reproductive performance of dairy cows during summer. The results indicated that supplementation with capsaicin along with a modified Ovsynch synchronisation protocol has beneficial effects on production and fertility of Chinese Holstein dairy cows during summer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Crop residues are often returned to the soil to achieve soil carbon (C) sequestration in the agricultural sector, thereby mitigating climate change and soil degradation. However, direct straw incorporation may increase the risks of greenhouse gas (GHG) and reactive nitrogen (Nr) emissions. To comprehensively evaluate whether straw-derived biochar is a feasible alternative to straw for increasing grain yields and soil C sequestration while reducing GHG and Nr emissions in cropland, we conducted a two-factor field trial on maize farmland in northwest China during 2019–2021. Factor one comprised three straw incorporation methods (straw removal (T), total straw incorporation (S), and straw-derived biochar incorporation (B; biochar application at a straw/biochar ratio of 33%)) and factor two comprised two nitrogen (N) fertilizer application rates (0 and 300 kg ha–1). The relative benefits of the treatments for the maize productivity, net ecosystem carbon budget (NECB), carbon footprint (CF), nitrogen footprint (NF), and net ecosystem economic benefits (NEEB) were comprehensively evaluated by using the life cycle assessment (LCA) and Z-score methods. N fertilizer application was the main factor that increased maize productivity, NECB, NF, and NEEB in the maize agroecosystem. Under conventional N application, NECB increased by 244.0% (1647.37 kg C ha–1 yr–1) under SN compared with TN, and heterotrophic respiration (Rh) and N 2 O emissions increased by 70.3% and 34.9%, respectively. By contrast, BN increased NECB by 295.8% (1996.79 kg C ha–1 yr–1), and decreased Rh and N 2 O emissions by 8.2% and 20.9%, respectively. Hence, BN reduced the net global warming potential (NGWP) and greenhouse gas intensity (GHGI) of the farmland ecosystems by 56.4% (1609.49 kg CO 2 -eq ha–1 yr–1) and 46.5%, respectively, compared with SN. Moreover, the grain yield, water use efficiency (WUE) and N use efficiency increased significantly under BN compared with TN. Compared to SN, integrated straw-derived biochar utilization (pre-farm abatement + BN management on the farm) reduced the average CF and NF of the maize agroecosystem by 350.2% (4004.85 kg CO 2 -eq ha–1 yr–1) and 16.5% (12.68 kg N-eq ha–1 yr–1), respectively, and improved NEEB by $ 624.7 ha–1 yr–1. Integrated straw-derived biochar utilization may be applied as a sustainable and economical straw alternative to straw for enhancing soil C sinks and reducing GHG and Nr emissions. Integrated straw-derived biochar utilization is an economically friendly and sustainable method for straw utilization in dryland maize production, and highly significant for mitigating climate and environmental degradation. [Display omitted] • Biochar was more effective than straw in increasing net ecosystem carbon budget. • Biochar reduced greenhouse gas and reactive nitrogen emissions better than straw. • Integrated biochar utilization was strong C sink while straw was weak C source. • Integrated biochar utilization was a sustainable and economical straw alternative. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Besnoitiosis is an emerging disease in Tibetan sheep and yaks in Qinghai Tibetan plateau (QTP) of China. That is why a survey was conducted for the seroprevalence and detection of associated risk factors of this disease in Tibetan sheep and yaks in QTP of China. A total of 1092 and 1449 serum samples were collected from Tibetan sheep and yaks respectively and checked by employing commercial ELISA kits. The seroprevalence of besnoitiosis in Tibetan sheep was found to be 3.21% ranging from 0 to 5.6% in different counties. The male and female sheep were found positive with 3.15 and 3.25% cases respectively for this disease. A total of 16/1449 (1.10%) yaks were found to be positive for besnoitiosis ranging from 0-2.03% from different counties. In years of 2011-17, the seroprevalence has been ranged from 0-4.10%. Based on conditional stepwise logistic regression analysis, it can be speculated that the varying climatic changes in QTP region and age are the influencing risk factors in causing besnoitiosis in Tibetan sheep and yaks. The survey herein has highlighted the risk and rising potential for this parasitic disease in yaks and Tibetan sheep on the remote plateau. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In dryland farming, maize (Zea mays L.) and peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) intercropping has been widely practiced to achieve sustainable agriculture goals. However, only a few studies have investigated the effect of reducing nitrogen (N) application on the performance of maize and peanut crops in intercropping system based on rotation of the planting strip. Therefore, a field study was conducted from 2018 to 2020 in Yangling, China, where the treatments comprised peanut monoculture, maize monoculture, maize–peanut intercropping, maize–peanut rotational intercropping, and maize N reduction based on the rotational intercropping system. The N accumulation and yield in maize increased after intercropping, while the N accumulation, yield and N fixation capacity of peanut decreased than other treatments. In addition, soil residual N, ammonia volatilization, N leaching, and N 2 O emissions of maize–peanut intercropping significantly decreased than maize monoculture. The rotation of planting strips in maize–peanut intercropping had increased the land equivalent ratio by 3.06 % and 9.39 % and N recovery efficiency by 15.45 % and 27.37 % in the second and third years of planting, as well as alleviated the continuous cropping barrier for peanuts. N reduction does not affect N fixation capacity and yield of peanut and reduces ammonia volatilization and N leaching from farmland, although it does influence maize yield. The optimal cropping system was a 20 % N reduction in maize planting strip under rotational intercropping because N accumulation and the farmland productivity were not affected significantly, while the N losses to the environment also decreased by an average of 44.17 % and 14.87 % compared with traditional intercropping and monoculture in the second and third years of planting. These results are useful for optimizing cropping systems to promote sustainable development in dryland regions and mitigate N pollution. • Maize-peanut intercropping in dry farming can reduce apparent N loss. • The intercropping N advantage tended to decrease with prolonged experiment duration. • Rotation of planting strips increase the N accumulation and N fixation in peanut. • The marginal benefits were affected by the N application rate. • 20 % N reduction in maize can reduce N-stress of farmland without affecting yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]