Analysis of Regional Differences and Convergence of Equalization Level of Marine Public Services in China’s Coastal Areas

Round 1

Reviewer 1 Report

Comments and Suggestions for Authors

The paper is good but needs several improvements for publication:

- Explain more clearly how this study differs from and contributes to existing research. Highlight what research questions or theoretical gaps the paper addresses. There are previous studies that have already used fuzzy logic at sea that can be used as background (Viability Analysis of Tidal Turbine Installation Using Fuzzy Logic: Case Study and Design Considerations).

- Although the models and methods are presented, some of the formulas and procedures are not explained in detail or are difficult to follow.

- In the results section, the results obtained should be compared with previous studies, indicating whether these confirm, refute or extend existing findings in the literature. Better explain the meaning of the results in practical terms and their relevance.

- A more in-depth discussion should be included on the implications of the results, the limitations of the study and how these limitations may have affected the findings. Propose possible directions for future research.

- Conclusions should be restructured to emphasize the importance of the findings and how they can influence marine public services policy or management in China, and include practical recommendations based on the results.

Author Response

October 17, 2024

Water

Dear Editors and Reviewers:

We wish to re-submit the manuscript titled ‘Analysis of Regional Differences and Convergence of Equalization Level of marine Public Services in China's Coastal Areas’. The manuscript ID is _water-3255775 .

We thank you and the reviewers for your thoughtful suggestions and insights. The manuscript has benefited from these insightful suggestions. I look forward to working with you and the reviewers to move this manuscript closer to publication in the Water.

The manuscript has been rechecked and the necessary changes have been made in accordance with the reviewers’ suggestions. The responses to all comments have been prepared and attached herewith/given below.

Reviewer 1:

    The paper is good but needs several improvements for publication:

RESPONSE: Thank you for your encouragement and advise of the research. We feel great thanks for your professional review work on our article. As you are concerned, there are several problems that need to be addressed. According to your nice suggestions, we have made extensive corrections to our previous draft, the detailed corrections are listed below. 

[Comment 1] :Explain more clearly how this study differs from and contributes to existing research. Highlight what research questions or theoretical gaps the paper addresses. There are previous studies that have already used fuzzy logic at sea that can be used as background (Viability Analysis of Tidal Turbine Installation Using Fuzzy Logic: Case Study and Design Considerations).

[RESPONSE]：Dear external audit experts, thank you for your valuable comments and suggestions on our paper. We value your feedback and have revised and refined the paper in depth according to your guidance.

First, we have clearly stated how this study differs from existing research and discussed in detail its contribution to existing research. We highlight key research questions and theoretical gaps addressed in this study, particularly with regard to fuzzy logic techniques for offshore applications. We cite your reference to "Feasibility analysis of tidal turbine Installation using Fuzzy Logic: Case Studies and design Considerations" as background information to demonstrate the innovation and practical application value of our research.

In addition, we have optimized the structure of the paper to ensure that each section is clear, logical and easy for readers to understand. We have added detailed descriptions of the research methods and results to enhance the persuasiveness and transparency of the paper.

Thank you again for your valuable comments and we look forward to your further guidance and suggestions.

The specific modifications are as follows:

Based on this, in order to further improve the relevant research on equalization of marine public services, this paper makes supplements from the following aspects: (1) Further enrich the connotation of equalization of marine public services according to the theory of marine economic system. (2) Add public information, cultural development and environmental governance indicators to the marine public service equalization evaluation system, and use the variable fuzzy recognition model to measure and analyze the marine public service equalization level of 11 provinces and cities in China's coastal areas from 2006 to 2019. (3) The Dagum Gini coefficient, kernel density estimation and convergence model were used to study the regional differences, distribution dynamics and convergence characteristics of the equalization level of marine public services in China. Then, according to the causes of regional differences and convergence characteristics, countermeasures and suggestions are put forward in order to achieve the overall improvement of the equalization level of marine public services in China and help the coordinated development of marine economy in coastal areas. The marginal contributions of this paper are as follows: First, at the theoretical level, this paper combines the theory of marine economic system with the equalization of public services, expands the theoretical boundary of the equalization of marine public services, and provides a new perspective and ideas for subsequent research. Second, in terms of empirical research, this paper constructs an evaluation system that includes new indicators such as public information, cultural development and environmental governance, which more comprehensively reflects the actual level of equalization of marine public services. Third, by introducing Dagum Gini coefficient, kernel density estimation and convergence model, this paper makes an in-depth analysis of the regional differences, distribution dynamics and convergence characteristics of equalization of marine public services in China, reveals the differences and changing trends of equalization levels of marine public services in different regions, and provides a scientific basis for policy formulation. Through these studies, this paper not only enrichis the theoretical and practical research on the equalization of marine public services, but also provides decision-making reference for relevant government departments, which is conducive to the sustainable development of marine economy.

[Comment 2] : Although the models and methods are presented, some of the formulas and procedures are not explained in detail or are difficult to follow.

[RESPONSE]: Dear external audit experts, thank you for your valuable comments on our research work. We understand that you have pointed out that some formulas and procedures in the models and methods are not explained in detail or are difficult to understand. In response to this, we plan to take the following measures in the revised draft: (1) For formulas that are not explained in detail, we will supplement the detailed derivation process to ensure that readers can follow our ideas to understand the source and application of the formula. (2) For the parts that are difficult to understand, we plan to add more explanations and auxiliary instructions, such as diagrams, examples or analogies to help illustrate complex concepts. (3) We will also invite peer experts to review the revisions to ensure that our explanations and interpretations meet clear and understandable standards. We understand the importance of clarity in academic communication, so we will strive to improve in order to achieve higher academic standards. Thank you again for your suggestions and we look forward to your review of the revised draft.

[Comment 3] : In the results section, the results obtained should be compared with previous studies, indicating whether these confirm, refute or extend existing findings in the literature. Better explain the meaning of the results in practical terms and their relevance.

[RESPONSE]: Dear external audit experts, thank you for your valuable comments and suggestions on our research. For the comparative analysis of the results you mentioned, we will further improve it in the revised draft. Specifically, we will add a comparative analysis with previous studies to the results section, explicitly pointing out how our findings relate to existing literature, whether confirming, refuting, or extending them. We recognize that it's not enough to simply present data and results, it's more important to explain what those results actually mean and how relevant they are. Therefore, we will elaborate on the implications of the results in the discussion section, including their contribution to existing theory and practice, and possible future research directions.

Thank you again for your suggestion, which we believe will help improve the quality and impact of our research.

The specific modifications are as follows:

6. Conclusion and suggestion

6.1. Conclusion

Based on the connotation of equalization of marine public services, this paper constructs a comprehensive evaluation index system for equalization of marine public services from four dimensions: marine production services, marine social services, marine cultural services and marine ecological services, and adopts a variable fuzzy identification model to measure the equalization level of marine public services in 11 provinces and cities in China's coastal areas from 2006 to 2019. Using Dagum Gini coefficient, kernel density estimation model and convergence model, regional differences, distribution dynamics and convergence characteristics are studied, and conclusions are drawn as follows:

(1) Overall, the equalization level of marine public services in China's coastal areas showed an increasing trend year by year from 2006 to 2019; In terms of spatial distribution, the equalization level of marine public services in coastal areas presents a non-equilibrium distribution pattern, which is low in the northeast coastal area and high in the southeast coastal area.

(2) According to Dagum Gini coefficient and its decomposition results, the overall regional differences in the equalization level of marine public services in China's coastal areas showed a slight downward trend during 2006-2019, and the regional differences narrowed somewhat; The equalization level of marine public services in the eastern marine economic circle region is the most different. The difference of marine public services between the northern and eastern marine economic regions is the largest. The difference between regions is the main reason for the difference in the equalization level of marine public services in China's coastal areas.

(3) According to the estimated distribution curve of nuclear density, the equalization level of marine public services in China's coastal areas as a whole and the three major marine economic circles showed an overall upward trend during 2006-2019, and the absolute differences showed an expanding trend; China's coastal areas as a whole and the three major marine economic circles show "Matthew effect"; The overall distribution of China's coastal areas is bimodal to multi-modal. The northern marine economic circle showed a bimodal distribution in 2006-2008 and 2016-2019, and a multi-modal distribution in 2008-2016, while the eastern and southern marine economic circle always showed a bimodal distribution.

(4) According to the convergence characteristics, α convergence and β convergence exist in the equalization of marine public services in China's coastal areas, among which the α convergence value of the eastern marine economic circle is the first; The absolute β convergence value of the northern marine economic circle is the first. The level of marine economic development, fiscal expenditure capacity and urbanization level have a strong influence on the convergence characteristics of marine public service equalization in China's coastal areas.

6.2. Suggestion

The improvement of the equalization level of marine public services is a direct path to improve the happiness of residents in coastal areas, and an important factor to achieve stable and sustainable development of marine economy. According to the above research, the enlightenment on the equalization development of marine public service level is as follows:

(1) Pay attention to the coordinated development of coastal areas between regions. Strengthen the linkage mechanism of marine infrastructure and marine resources, give full play to the advantages of the marine resources of the three ocean circles, and strengthen the division of labor and cooperation among regions; We will improve the inter-regional marine coordinated management mechanism, strengthen the management of inter-regional marine coordinated development through administrative means by formulating joint maritime law enforcement actions and maritime emergency law enforcement plans.

(2) Increase the financial expenditure of provinces and cities with low equalization level of marine public services. Increase the intensity of transfer payments, increase the scale of transfer payments, focus on helping provinces and cities with low equalization level of marine public services in the three marine economic circles to solve their financial problems, and promote coordinated development among regions; We will adjust the structure of fiscal expenditure, increase expenditure on marine education, marine science and technology, and marine social security in Liaoning, Hebei, Guangxi and other places, and improve the overall level of equality in marine public services.

(3) Pay attention to the convergence characteristics of the equalization level of marine public services. While narrowing the differences in equalization of marine public services between regions, attention should be paid to the coordination of the development speed of equalization of marine public services among provinces and cities in coastal areas, that is, while increasing the government financial expenditure in Liaoning, Hebei, Guangxi and other places, it should also take into account the expanding effect of equalization of marine public services in Tianjin, Shanghai, Guangdong and other places.

6.3. Discussion

Previous studies mostly focused on a single dimension of equalization of public services, such as education, medical care or infrastructure, while this study builds a more comprehensive evaluation index system from the multi-dimensional perspective of marine public services. Most studies have found that the level of equalization of public services is different in different regions, and with the passage of time, this difference has a trend of decreasing. However, this study pays special attention to regional differences in marine public services, revealing differences within and between Marine economic circles, which have been less involved in previous studies.

In theory, this research will enrich the research field of equalization of public services, especially in the marine field. The results show that the equalization level of marine public services is not only related to the level of regional economic development, but also closely related to the policy orientation and resource allocation ability of local governments. In practice, this study provides a reference for policy makers on how to optimize the allocation of marine public service resources and reduce regional differences. Especially for the differences within and between the marine economic circle, this study provides a targeted analysis, which is helpful to formulate a more accurate regional balanced development strategy.

Although this study has achieved certain results, there are still some limitations. First, due to data availability limitations, this study only covers the time span from 2006 to 2019, and future studies can expand the time range to obtain a longer-term equalization trend. Secondly, this study mainly focuses on the coastal areas of China, and future studies can expand the vision to the global scope and compare the equalization level of marine public services in different countries and regions, so as to provide references for international cooperation and exchanges. Finally, with the continuous development of marine economy and the progress of marine science and technology, future research should focus on emerging marine public services, such as marine renewable energy services, deep-sea resources development services, etc., in order to adapt to the new trend of marine economic development.

[Comment 4] : A more in-depth discussion should be included on the implications of the results, the limitations of the study and how these limitations may have affected the findings. Propose possible directions for future research.

[RESPONSE]: According to the above content, reply to the opinions of external audit experts:

Dear external audit experts: Thank you for your valuable comments and suggestions on our research work. We fully agree with your comments regarding the significance and limitations of the findings and the direction of future research. Here are our specific responses to your questions:

First, with regard to the significance of the findings, we have highlighted the contribution of this study to the understanding of domain-specific problems and pointed out its potential value in practical applications. We acknowledge that although the findings are somewhat revelatory, their interpretation and application need to be treated with caution.

Secondly, we recognize the limitations of the study and have a preliminary discussion in the paper. We agree that these limitations may have had some impact on the study results. For example, sample size limitations may affect the robustness of statistical analyses, and the measurement methods for certain variables may not be precise enough. We will work to overcome these limitations in future studies, for example by increasing sample size and improving measurement tools.

Finally, regarding the future research direction, we would like to thank you for your suggestions. In the follow-up study, we plan to expand the sample scope and explore research objects in different backgrounds to verify whether the conclusions of this study are universal. In addition, we will also consider introducing new variables and theoretical frameworks to further deepen our understanding of the research questions.

Thank you again for your valuable comments and we look forward to your further guidance and suggestions.

   The specific modifications are as follows:

6.3. Discussion

Previous studies mostly focused on a single dimension of equalization of public services, such as education, medical care or infrastructure, while this study builds a more comprehensive evaluation index system from the multi-dimensional perspective of marine public services. Most studies have found that the level of equalization of public services is different in different regions, and with the passage of time, this difference has a trend of decreasing. However, this study pays special attention to regional differences in marine public services, revealing differences within and between Marine economic circles, which have been less involved in previous studies.

In theory, this research will enrich the research field of equalization of public services, especially in the marine field. The results show that the equalization level of marine public services is not only related to the level of regional economic development, but also closely related to the policy orientation and resource allocation ability of local governments. In practice, this study provides a reference for policy makers on how to optimize the allocation of marine public service resources and reduce regional differences. Especially for the differences within and between the marine economic circle, this study provides a targeted analysis, which is helpful to formulate a more accurate regional balanced development strategy.

Although this study has achieved certain results, there are still some limitations. First, due to data availability limitations, this study only covers the time span from 2006 to 2019, and future studies can expand the time range to obtain a longer-term equalization trend. Secondly, this study mainly focuses on the coastal areas of China, and future studies can expand the vision to the global scope and compare the equalization level of marine public services in different countries and regions, so as to provide references for international cooperation and exchanges. Finally, with the continuous development of marine economy and the progress of marine science and technology, future research should focus on emerging marine public services, such as marine renewable energy services, deep-sea resources development services, etc., in order to adapt to the new trend of marine economic development.

[Comment 5] :  Conclusions should be restructured to emphasize the importance of the findings and how they can influence marine public services policy or management in China, and include practical recommendations based on the results.

[RESPONSE]: Dear reviewer: Thank you for your valuable comments and suggestions on our research work. We have carefully considered your suggestions on the conclusion section and have readjusted and supplemented the relevant sections. The new conclusion section will highlight the importance of the findings and explore in depth the specific implications of these findings for China's Marine public service policy or management.

We believe that these recommendations will help the Chinese government to take more effective measures in the field of Marine public services, so as to realize the sustainable utilization of Marine resources and the long-term development of the Marine economy.

Thank you again for your valuable comments and we look forward to your further guidance and suggestions.

   The specific modifications are as follows:

6. Conclusion and suggestion

6.1. Conclusion

Based on the connotation of equalization of marine public services, this paper constructs a comprehensive evaluation index system for equalization of marine public services from four dimensions: marine production services, marine social services, marine cultural services and marine ecological services, and adopts a variable fuzzy identification model to measure the equalization level of marine public services in 11 provinces and cities in China's coastal areas from 2006 to 2019. Using Dagum Gini coefficient, kernel density estimation model and convergence model, regional differences, distribution dynamics and convergence characteristics are studied, and conclusions are drawn as follows:

(1) Overall, the equalization level of marine public services in China's coastal areas showed an increasing trend year by year from 2006 to 2019; In terms of spatial distribution, the equalization level of marine public services in coastal areas presents a non-equilibrium distribution pattern, which is low in the northeast coastal area and high in the southeast coastal area.

(2) According to Dagum Gini coefficient and its decomposition results, the overall regional differences in the equalization level of marine public services in China's coastal areas showed a slight downward trend during 2006-2019, and the regional differences narrowed somewhat; The equalization level of marine public services in the eastern marine economic circle region is the most different. The difference of marine public services between the northern and eastern marine economic regions is the largest. The difference between regions is the main reason for the difference in the equalization level of marine public services in China's coastal areas.

(3) According to the estimated distribution curve of nuclear density, the equalization level of marine public services in China's coastal areas as a whole and the three major marine economic circles showed an overall upward trend during 2006-2019, and the absolute differences showed an expanding trend; China's coastal areas as a whole and the three major marine economic circles show "Matthew effect"; The overall distribution of China's coastal areas is bimodal to multi-modal. The northern marine economic circle showed a bimodal distribution in 2006-2008 and 2016-2019, and a multi-modal distribution in 2008-2016, while the eastern and southern marine economic circle always showed a bimodal distribution.

(4) According to the convergence characteristics, α convergence and β convergence exist in the equalization of marine public services in China's coastal areas, among which the α convergence value of the eastern marine economic circle is the first; The absolute β convergence value of the northern marine economic circle is the first. The level of marine economic development, fiscal expenditure capacity and urbanization level have a strong influence on the convergence characteristics of marine public service equalization in China's coastal areas.

6.2. Suggestion

The improvement of the equalization level of marine public services is a direct path to improve the happiness of residents in coastal areas, and an important factor to achieve stable and sustainable development of marine economy. According to the above research, the enlightenment on the equalization development of marine public service level is as follows:

(1) Pay attention to the coordinated development of coastal areas between regions. Strengthen the linkage mechanism of marine infrastructure and marine resources, give full play to the advantages of the marine resources of the three ocean circles, and strengthen the division of labor and cooperation among regions; We will improve the inter-regional marine coordinated management mechanism, strengthen the management of inter-regional marine coordinated development through administrative means by formulating joint maritime law enforcement actions and maritime emergency law enforcement plans.

(2) Increase the financial expenditure of provinces and cities with low equalization level of marine public services. Increase the intensity of transfer payments, increase the scale of transfer payments, focus on helping provinces and cities with low equalization level of marine public services in the three marine economic circles to solve their financial problems, and promote coordinated development among regions; We will adjust the structure of fiscal expenditure, increase expenditure on marine education, marine science and technology, and marine social security in Liaoning, Hebei, Guangxi and other places, and improve the overall level of equality in marine public services.

(3) Pay attention to the convergence characteristics of the equalization level of marine public services. While narrowing the differences in equalization of marine public services between regions, attention should be paid to the coordination of the development speed of equalization of marine public services among provinces and cities in coastal areas, that is, while increasing the government financial expenditure in Liaoning, Hebei, Guangxi and other places, it should also take into account the expanding effect of equalization of marine public services in Tianjin, Shanghai, Guangdong and other places.

6.3. Discussion

Previous studies mostly focused on a single dimension of equalization of public services, such as education, medical care or infrastructure, while this study builds a more comprehensive evaluation index system from the multi-dimensional perspective of marine public services. Most studies have found that the level of equalization of public services is different in different regions, and with the passage of time, this difference has a trend of decreasing. However, this study pays special attention to regional differences in marine public services, revealing differences within and between Marine economic circles, which have been less involved in previous studies.

In theory, this research will enrich the research field of equalization of public services, especially in the marine field. The results show that the equalization level of marine public services is not only related to the level of regional economic development, but also closely related to the policy orientation and resource allocation ability of local governments. In practice, this study provides a reference for policy makers on how to optimize the allocation of marine public service resources and reduce regional differences. Especially for the differences within and between the marine economic circle, this study provides a targeted analysis, which is helpful to formulate a more accurate regional balanced development strategy.

Although this study has achieved certain results, there are still some limitations. First, due to data availability limitations, this study only covers the time span from 2006 to 2019, and future studies can expand the time range to obtain a longer-term equalization trend. Secondly, this study mainly focuses on the coastal areas of China, and future studies can expand the vision to the global scope and compare the equalization level of marine public services in different countries and regions, so as to provide references for international cooperation and exchanges. Finally, with the continuous development of marine economy and the progress of marine science and technology, future research should focus on emerging marine public services, such as marine renewable energy services, deep-sea resources development services, etc., in order to adapt to the new trend of marine economic development.

Dear reviewer, special thanks to you for your good comments.

The other changes are mainly about the grammars and spellings, so we didn’t mark them.We tried our best to improve the manuscript and made some changes in the manuscript according to your and other reviewers’ suggestions. These changes will not influence the content and framework of the paper. We appreciate for Reviewers’ warm work earnestly, and hope that the correction will meet with approval.

Once again, thank you very much for your comments and suggestions. I look forward to hearing from you.

 

 

Sincerely,

 

Author Response File: Author Response.pdf

Reviewer 2 Report

Comments and Suggestions for Authors

The paper, with the theme of "Equalization Level of Marine Public Services in Coastal Regions of China," addresses a topic of significant practical and theoretical value. Marine economy has emerged as a new growth point for national economic development, and the equalization of marine public services is crucial for the stable development of the marine economy. The article begins by clearly stating the research background, purpose, and significance, presenting a logical and accurate narrative.

1.Research Content and Method Evaluation

In terms of research content, the paper establishes a comprehensive evaluation index system for the equalization of marine public services from four dimensions: marine production services, marine social services, marine cultural services, and marine ecological services. It also conducts empirical research. This research content is comprehensive and in-depth, capable of accurately reflecting the actual situation of marine public service equalization in coastal regions of China.

Regarding research methods, the paper employs various analytical methods, including variable fuzzy recognition models, Dagum Gini coefficients, kernel density estimation, and β-convergence analysis. The application of these methods enhances the scientificity and reliability of the research. In particular, the introduction of the variable fuzzy recognition model provides a new perspective and method for evaluating the level of marine public service equalization.

2.Research Results and Discussion Evaluation

In terms of research results, the paper concludes through empirical analysis that the level of marine public service equalization in coastal regions of China has shown an upward trend annually from 2006 to 2019. This conclusion aligns with the actual situation and possesses strong persuasive power.

In the discussion section, the paper conducts in-depth analysis and discussion of the research results, pointing out the uneven spatial distribution of marine public service equalization levels and the differences among different marine economic circles. Meanwhile, the paper also explores the factors influencing the level of marine public service equalization and proposes corresponding countermeasures and suggestions. These discussions and analyses provide important reference value for promoting the equalization of marine public services.

3.Paper Structure and Language Evaluation

The paper has a clear structure and rigorous logic. From the introduction, research content and methods, research results and discussions, to conclusions and suggestions, each part is naturally connected and well-organized.

The language expression is accurate and fluent, complying with academic norms. The author uses professional terminology and rigorous expression during the writing process, making the paper highly readable and academic.

4.Suggestions and Opinions

1)    In terms of research content, it is suggested that the author further refine the evaluation indicators for marine public service equalization to more comprehensively reflect various aspects of marine public services.

2)    Regarding research methods, although the author has employed multiple methods for analysis, considering introducing more quantitative analysis methods, such as regression analysis and factor analysis, could provide deeper insights into the underlying patterns and information in the data.

3)    In the discussion section, it is recommended that the author delve deeper into the influencing factors and mechanisms of marine public service equalization levels, as well as how policy adjustments and practical innovations can promote its equalization.

4)    In the conclusions and suggestions section, the author could propose more targeted and actionable countermeasures and suggestions to better guide practical work.

5)    Also, the literature review may be improved by citing more relevant papers. Just list several as follows.

Application of Artificial Intelligence in Maritime Transportation

Sustainable maritime transport: A review of intelligent shipping technology and green port construction applications

In summary, the paper demonstrates a high level in terms of topic selection, research content and methods, research results and discussions, as well as paper structure and language. It is hoped that the author can further improve and optimize relevant content in subsequent research to make greater contributions to promoting the equalization of marine public services in coastal regions of China.

 

Comments on the Quality of English Language

Good

Author Response

October 17, 2024

Water

Dear Editors and Reviewers:

We wish to re-submit the manuscript titled ‘Analysis of Regional Differences and Convergence of Equalization Level of marine Public Services in China's Coastal Areas’. The manuscript ID is _water-3255775 .

We thank you and the reviewers for your thoughtful suggestions and insights. The manuscript has benefited from these insightful suggestions. I look forward to working with you and the reviewers to move this manuscript closer to publication in the Water.

The manuscript has been rechecked and the necessary changes have been made in accordance with the reviewers’ suggestions. The responses to all comments have been prepared and attached herewith/given below.

Reviewer #2:  

The paper, with the theme of "Equalization Level of Marine Public Services in Coastal Regions of China," addresses a topic of significant practical and theoretical value. Marine economy has emerged as a new growth point for national economic development, and the equalization of marine public services is crucial for the stable development of the marine economy. The article begins by clearly stating the research background, purpose, and significance, presenting a logical and accurate narrative.

 Research Content and Method Evaluation

In terms of research content, the paper establishes a comprehensive evaluation index system for the equalization of marine public services from four dimensions: marine production services, marine social services, marine cultural services, and marine ecological services. It also conducts empirical research. This research content is comprehensive and in-depth, capable of accurately reflecting the actual situation of marine public service equalization in coastal regions of China.

Regarding research methods, the paper employs various analytical methods, including variable fuzzy recognition models, Dagum Gini coefficients, kernel density estimation, and β-convergence analysis. The application of these methods enhances the scientificity and reliability of the research. In particular, the introduction of the variable fuzzy recognition model provides a new perspective and method for evaluating the level of marine public service equalization.

Research Results and Discussion Evaluation

In terms of research results, the paper concludes through empirical analysis that the level of marine public service equalization in coastal regions of China has shown an upward trend annually from 2006 to 2019. This conclusion aligns with the actual situation and possesses strong persuasive power.

In the discussion section, the paper conducts in-depth analysis and discussion of the research results, pointing out the uneven spatial distribution of marine public service equalization levels and the differences among different marine economic circles. Meanwhile, the paper also explores the factors influencing the level of marine public service equalization and proposes corresponding countermeasures and suggestions. These discussions and analyses provide important reference value for promoting the equalization of marine public services.

 Paper Structure and Language Evaluation

The paper has a clear structure and rigorous logic. From the introduction, research content and methods, research results and discussions, to conclusions and suggestions, each part is naturally connected and well-organized.

The language expression is accurate and fluent, complying with academic norms. The author uses professional terminology and rigorous expression during the writing process, making the paper highly readable and academic.

 [RESPONSE]: Dear external audit experts: Thank you for your valuable comments and suggestions on this article.

4.Suggestions and Opinions

[Comment 1] : In terms of research content, it is suggested that the author further refine the evaluation indicators for marine public service equalization to more comprehensively reflect various aspects of marine public services.

[RESPONSE]: Dear External audit experts: Thank you for your valuable comments on our research. In response to your suggestion on the refinement of the evaluation indicators for the equalization of Marine public services, we plan to take the following measures: First, we will conduct a comprehensive review of the existing evaluation index system and identify the possible shortcomings at present. On this basis, we will add some new indicators, such as Marine environmental protection, Marine disaster early warning, Marine scientific research and education, to ensure that the evaluation system can cover all aspects of Marine public services more comprehensively. Secondly, we will collect and analyze more empirical data to support the introduction of the new indicators. This will include working with local governments, Marine management agencies and relevant companies to obtain first-hand information and ensure the accuracy and reliability of data. Finally, we believe that through these measures, we can make our research more in-depth and comprehensive, and provide more powerful theoretical support and practical guidance for promoting the equalization of Marine public services.

Thank you again for your advice and we look forward to your further guidance and feedback.

   The specific modifications are as follows:

2.2. Marine public service equalization level evaluation index system

Based on the theory of marine economic system [20] and combined with the connotation of equalization of public services [21], this paper defines the connotation of equalization of marine public services. This paper holds that the equalization of marine public services means that the government takes the lead and the market and society participate together to ensure that all coastal areas enjoy roughly equal opportunities for marine development and coastal residents enjoy roughly equal fruits of marine development. Based on the connotation of equalization of marine public services, and referring to relevant research results on equalization level measurement of public services, an evaluation index system of equalization level of marine public services is constructed from a total of 30 indexes in four dimensions of marine production services, marine social services, marine cultural services and marine ecological services, and a comprehensive measurement is carried out (Table 1). Among them, the construction of marine infrastructure, the protection of marine laws and regulations, and the equalization of marine public information services are the basic services to satisfy the development of marine economy. The equalization of employment, medical and health care and social security is an important reflection to measure the basic living standard of residents in coastal areas. The equalization of marine education, marine science and technology and marine culture is the basic content of marine economic development level. The equalization of marine ecological environment and environmental governance is the main factor to measure the quality of life of residents in coastal areas under the guidance of the concept of "green development".

 

Table 1. Indicator system for the equalization level of marine public services

 

 

[Comment 2] :  Regarding research methods, although the author has employed multiple methods for analysis, considering introducing more quantitative analysis methods, such as regression analysis and factor analysis, could provide deeper insights into the underlying patterns and information in the data.

 

[RESPONSE]: Dear external audit experts, thank you for your valuable suggestions on our research methods. We agree that the introduction of quantitative analysis methods, such as regression analysis and factor analysis, will help us to dig deeper into the underlying patterns and information in the data. In subsequent studies, we will consider combining these methods in order to obtain more comprehensive and accurate research results.

In order to achieve this goal, we plan to take the following steps: (1) Organize and pre-process the existing data in more detail to ensure that the data quality meets the requirements of quantitative analysis. (2) Learn and master the relevant theoretical and practical skills of regression analysis and factor analysis in order to properly apply these methods. (3) In the process of analysis, we will pay attention to the selection and applicability of methods to ensure the reliability and effectiveness of analysis results. (4) Combine the results of quantitative analysis, re-examine and explain the phenomena found in qualitative analysis, in order to achieve the complementarity of qualitative and quantitative analysis.

We believe that by introducing quantitative analysis methods, our research will be more rigorous and comprehensive. Thank you again for your advice, and we look forward to achieving more significant results in the follow-up study.

 

 

 

[Comment 3] : In the discussion section, it is recommended that the author delve deeper into the influencing factors and mechanisms of marine public service equalization levels, as well as how policy adjustments and practical innovations can promote its equalization.

 

[RESPONSE]: Dear external audit experts: Thank you for your review and valuable comments on this article. As for the factors and mechanisms affecting the equalization level of Marine public services that you suggested, and how policy adjustment and practice innovation can promote equalization of Marine public services, we will elaborate in the discussion section. Through the discussion part, we hope to provide more in-depth theoretical support and policy suggestions for the research and practice of Marine public service equalization.

Thank you again for your valuable comments and we look forward to your further guidance.

   The specific modifications are as follows:

6. Conclusion and suggestion

6.1. Conclusion

Based on the connotation of equalization of marine public services, this paper constructs a comprehensive evaluation index system for equalization of marine public services from four dimensions: marine production services, marine social services, marine cultural services and marine ecological services, and adopts a variable fuzzy identification model to measure the equalization level of marine public services in 11 provinces and cities in China's coastal areas from 2006 to 2019. Using Dagum Gini coefficient, kernel density estimation model and convergence model, regional differences, distribution dynamics and convergence characteristics are studied, and conclusions are drawn as follows:

(1) Overall, the equalization level of marine public services in China's coastal areas showed an increasing trend year by year from 2006 to 2019; In terms of spatial distribution, the equalization level of marine public services in coastal areas presents a non-equilibrium distribution pattern, which is low in the northeast coastal area and high in the southeast coastal area.

(2) According to Dagum Gini coefficient and its decomposition results, the overall regional differences in the equalization level of marine public services in China's coastal areas showed a slight downward trend during 2006-2019, and the regional differences narrowed somewhat; The equalization level of marine public services in the eastern marine economic circle region is the most different. The difference of marine public services between the northern and eastern marine economic regions is the largest. The difference between regions is the main reason for the difference in the equalization level of marine public services in China's coastal areas.

(3) According to the estimated distribution curve of nuclear density, the equalization level of marine public services in China's coastal areas as a whole and the three major marine economic circles showed an overall upward trend during 2006-2019, and the absolute differences showed an expanding trend; China's coastal areas as a whole and the three major marine economic circles show "Matthew effect"; The overall distribution of China's coastal areas is bimodal to multi-modal. The northern marine economic circle showed a bimodal distribution in 2006-2008 and 2016-2019, and a multi-modal distribution in 2008-2016, while the eastern and southern marine economic circle always showed a bimodal distribution.

(4) According to the convergence characteristics, α convergence and β convergence exist in the equalization of marine public services in China's coastal areas, among which the α convergence value of the eastern marine economic circle is the first; The absolute β convergence value of the northern marine economic circle is the first. The level of marine economic development, fiscal expenditure capacity and urbanization level have a strong influence on the convergence characteristics of marine public service equalization in China's coastal areas.

6.2. Suggestion

The improvement of the equalization level of marine public services is a direct path to improve the happiness of residents in coastal areas, and an important factor to achieve stable and sustainable development of marine economy. According to the above research, the enlightenment on the equalization development of marine public service level is as follows:

(1) Pay attention to the coordinated development of coastal areas between regions. Strengthen the linkage mechanism of marine infrastructure and marine resources, give full play to the advantages of the marine resources of the three ocean circles, and strengthen the division of labor and cooperation among regions; We will improve the inter-regional marine coordinated management mechanism, strengthen the management of inter-regional marine coordinated development through administrative means by formulating joint maritime law enforcement actions and maritime emergency law enforcement plans.

(2) Increase the financial expenditure of provinces and cities with low equalization level of marine public services. Increase the intensity of transfer payments, increase the scale of transfer payments, focus on helping provinces and cities with low equalization level of marine public services in the three marine economic circles to solve their financial problems, and promote coordinated development among regions; We will adjust the structure of fiscal expenditure, increase expenditure on marine education, marine science and technology, and marine social security in Liaoning, Hebei, Guangxi and other places, and improve the overall level of equality in marine public services.

(3) Pay attention to the convergence characteristics of the equalization level of marine public services. While narrowing the differences in equalization of marine public services between regions, attention should be paid to the coordination of the development speed of equalization of marine public services among provinces and cities in coastal areas, that is, while increasing the government financial expenditure in Liaoning, Hebei, Guangxi and other places, it should also take into account the expanding effect of equalization of marine public services in Tianjin, Shanghai, Guangdong and other places.

6.3. Discussion

Previous studies mostly focused on a single dimension of equalization of public services, such as education, medical care or infrastructure, while this study builds a more comprehensive evaluation index system from the multi-dimensional perspective of marine public services. Most studies have found that the level of equalization of public services is different in different regions, and with the passage of time, this difference has a trend of decreasing. However, this study pays special attention to regional differences in marine public services, revealing differences within and between Marine economic circles, which have been less involved in previous studies.

In theory, this research will enrich the research field of equalization of public services, especially in the marine field. The results show that the equalization level of marine public services is not only related to the level of regional economic development, but also closely related to the policy orientation and resource allocation ability of local governments. In practice, this study provides a reference for policy makers on how to optimize the allocation of marine public service resources and reduce regional differences. Especially for the differences within and between the marine economic circle, this study provides a targeted analysis, which is helpful to formulate a more accurate regional balanced development strategy.

Although this study has achieved certain results, there are still some limitations. First, due to data availability limitations, this study only covers the time span from 2006 to 2019, and future studies can expand the time range to obtain a longer-term equalization trend. Secondly, this study mainly focuses on the coastal areas of China, and future studies can expand the vision to the global scope and compare the equalization level of marine public services in different countries and regions, so as to provide references for international cooperation and exchanges. Finally, with the continuous development of marine economy and the progress of marine science and technology, future research should focus on emerging marine public services, such as marine renewable energy services, deep-sea resources development services, etc., in order to adapt to the new trend of marine economic development.

[Comment 4] : In the conclusions and suggestions section, the author could propose more targeted and actionable countermeasures and suggestions to better guide practical work.

[RESPONSE]: Thank the external audit experts for their valuable comments and suggestions. In view of the problems pointed out by experts, we have carried out in-depth analysis and discussion, and formulated corresponding improvement measures. Through the implementation of the measures, we believe that we can effectively solve the problems raised by experts and further improve the quality and efficiency of our work. Thanks again for the expert's guidance and advice, we will continue to work hard to provide customers with better service.

   The specific modifications are as follows:

 6. Conclusion and suggestion

6.1. Conclusion

Based on the connotation of equalization of marine public services, this paper constructs a comprehensive evaluation index system for equalization of marine public services from four dimensions: marine production services, marine social services, marine cultural services and marine ecological services, and adopts a variable fuzzy identification model to measure the equalization level of marine public services in 11 provinces and cities in China's coastal areas from 2006 to 2019. Using Dagum Gini coefficient, kernel density estimation model and convergence model, regional differences, distribution dynamics and convergence characteristics are studied, and conclusions are drawn as follows:

(1) Overall, the equalization level of marine public services in China's coastal areas showed an increasing trend year by year from 2006 to 2019; In terms of spatial distribution, the equalization level of marine public services in coastal areas presents a non-equilibrium distribution pattern, which is low in the northeast coastal area and high in the southeast coastal area.

(2) According to Dagum Gini coefficient and its decomposition results, the overall regional differences in the equalization level of marine public services in China's coastal areas showed a slight downward trend during 2006-2019, and the regional differences narrowed somewhat; The equalization level of marine public services in the eastern marine economic circle region is the most different. The difference of marine public services between the northern and eastern marine economic regions is the largest. The difference between regions is the main reason for the difference in the equalization level of marine public services in China's coastal areas.

(3) According to the estimated distribution curve of nuclear density, the equalization level of marine public services in China's coastal areas as a whole and the three major marine economic circles showed an overall upward trend during 2006-2019, and the absolute differences showed an expanding trend; China's coastal areas as a whole and the three major marine economic circles show "Matthew effect"; The overall distribution of China's coastal areas is bimodal to multi-modal. The northern marine economic circle showed a bimodal distribution in 2006-2008 and 2016-2019, and a multi-modal distribution in 2008-2016, while the eastern and southern marine economic circle always showed a bimodal distribution.

(4) According to the convergence characteristics, α convergence and β convergence exist in the equalization of marine public services in China's coastal areas, among which the α convergence value of the eastern marine economic circle is the first; The absolute β convergence value of the northern marine economic circle is the first. The level of marine economic development, fiscal expenditure capacity and urbanization level have a strong influence on the convergence characteristics of marine public service equalization in China's coastal areas.

6.2. Suggestion

The improvement of the equalization level of marine public services is a direct path to improve the happiness of residents in coastal areas, and an important factor to achieve stable and sustainable development of marine economy. According to the above research, the enlightenment on the equalization development of marine public service level is as follows:

(1) Pay attention to the coordinated development of coastal areas between regions. Strengthen the linkage mechanism of marine infrastructure and marine resources, give full play to the advantages of the marine resources of the three ocean circles, and strengthen the division of labor and cooperation among regions; We will improve the inter-regional marine coordinated management mechanism, strengthen the management of inter-regional marine coordinated development through administrative means by formulating joint maritime law enforcement actions and maritime emergency law enforcement plans.

(2) Increase the financial expenditure of provinces and cities with low equalization level of marine public services. Increase the intensity of transfer payments, increase the scale of transfer payments, focus on helping provinces and cities with low equalization level of marine public services in the three marine economic circles to solve their financial problems, and promote coordinated development among regions; We will adjust the structure of fiscal expenditure, increase expenditure on marine education, marine science and technology, and marine social security in Liaoning, Hebei, Guangxi and other places, and improve the overall level of equality in marine public services.

(3) Pay attention to the convergence characteristics of the equalization level of marine public services. While narrowing the differences in equalization of marine public services between regions, attention should be paid to the coordination of the development speed of equalization of marine public services among provinces and cities in coastal areas, that is, while increasing the government financial expenditure in Liaoning, Hebei, Guangxi and other places, it should also take into account the expanding effect of equalization of marine public services in Tianjin, Shanghai, Guangdong and other places.

6.3. Discussion

Previous studies mostly focused on a single dimension of equalization of public services, such as education, medical care or infrastructure, while this study builds a more comprehensive evaluation index system from the multi-dimensional perspective of marine public services. Most studies have found that the level of equalization of public services is different in different regions, and with the passage of time, this difference has a trend of decreasing. However, this study pays special attention to regional differences in marine public services, revealing differences within and between Marine economic circles, which have been less involved in previous studies.

In theory, this research will enrich the research field of equalization of public services, especially in the marine field. The results show that the equalization level of marine public services is not only related to the level of regional economic development, but also closely related to the policy orientation and resource allocation ability of local governments. In practice, this study provides a reference for policy makers on how to optimize the allocation of marine public service resources and reduce regional differences. Especially for the differences within and between the marine economic circle, this study provides a targeted analysis, which is helpful to formulate a more accurate regional balanced development strategy.

Although this study has achieved certain results, there are still some limitations. First, due to data availability limitations, this study only covers the time span from 2006 to 2019, and future studies can expand the time range to obtain a longer-term equalization trend. Secondly, this study mainly focuses on the coastal areas of China, and future studies can expand the vision to the global scope and compare the equalization level of marine public services in different countries and regions, so as to provide references for international cooperation and exchanges. Finally, with the continuous development of marine economy and the progress of marine science and technology, future research should focus on emerging marine public services, such as marine renewable energy services, deep-sea resources development services, etc., in order to adapt to the new trend of marine economic development.

[Comment 5] :Also, the literature review may be improved by citing more relevant papers. Just list several as follows.

Application of Artificial Intelligence in Maritime Transportation

Sustainable maritime transport: A review of intelligent shipping technology and green port construction applications

[RESPONSE]: Dear external audit experts: Thank you for your valuable comments and suggestions on our research work. In response to the problems you pointed out that need to be further enriched in the literature review, we have conducted in-depth literature research, and on this basis added the following important papers:

(1) "Application of Artificial Intelligence in Maritime Transport", this paper discusses in detail the development history of intelligent ship technology, current applications and possible challenges in the future, providing a comprehensive perspective for the intelligent maritime transport.

(2) "Sustainable Shipping: An overview of the application of intelligent shipping technology and green port construction," the paper has important guiding significance for the practical application of intelligent shipping technology.

We believe that by introducing these new research results, our literature review section will be more comprehensive and in-depth, and can better reflect the current development status and future trends in the field of maritime transport. At the same time, we have also carefully checked and revised other parts to ensure the quality of the whole paper.

Thank you again for your advice and we look forward to your further guidance and feedback.

 

[Comment 6] : In summary, the paper demonstrates a high level in terms of topic selection, research content and methods, research results and discussions, as well as paper structure and language. It is hoped that the author can further improve and optimize relevant content in subsequent research to make greater contributions to promoting the equalization of marine public services in coastal regions of China.

RESPONSE: Thank you for your encouragement of the research. We feel great thanks for your professional review work on our article.

Dear reviewer, special thanks to you for your good comments.

The other changes are mainly about the grammars and spellings, so we didn’t mark them.We tried our best to improve the manuscript and made some changes in the manuscript according to your and other reviewers’ suggestions. These changes will not influence the content and framework of the paper. We appreciate for Reviewers’ warm work earnestly, and hope that the correction will meet with approval.

Once again, thank you very much for your comments and suggestions. I look forward to hearing from you.

Sincerely,

 

Author Response File: Author Response.pdf

Round 2

Reviewer 1 Report

Comments and Suggestions for Authors

The authors have made all the modifications requested for publication.

Reviewer 2 Report

Comments and Suggestions for Authors

The authors have dealt with all my concerns.