Unveiling the Spatio-Temporal Dynamics and Driving Mechanism of Rural Industrial Integration Development: A Case of Chengdu–Chongqing Economic Circle, China

Round 1

Reviewer 1 Report

Comments and Suggestions for Authors

The issue addressed in the reviewed paper discusses the spatial and temporal dynamics and driving mechanism of rural industrial integration in China. The authors report that they conducted a comprehensive analysis of the most important aspects of the rural industry integration mechanism within the Chengdu-Chongqing economic circle in China. The paper's topic is in line with the journal's profile.

In the proposed scope, the paper is important and generally correct. However, I recommend a few corrections to improve the quality of this article:

- to discuss the current state of the art (I also suggest a more dilligent description of the research methods; concise, coherent research scenario etc.); the list of references is short, it is a pity that the authors did not do an extensive literature review - I recommend that this be completed (section 1 and 2);

This remark applies in particular to Rural Industrial Integration Development (RIID). Indeed, the entire study was built on this concept. I recommend that when discussing the state of the art, a broader perspective than just Chinese or Asian should be taken into account. Ultimately, what are the implications of a theoretical analysis of RIID levels for the chosen material and method of research?

The model construction appears to have been carried out correctly (that is, for the Entropy-Weighted TOPSIS Method and Moran's I Index Measure). Also of interest is how the system of evaluation indicators is established.

However, in the case of spatial evaluation and analysis of RIID in counties, I recommend greater accuracy and readability of the analysis, as well:

- to increase the readability of data in charts (e.g. numerical values should be arranged correctly in figures; precise, clear descriptions needed - concerns especially figs. 1 and 3);

that is, supplement the summary descriptive analysis (unfortunately poor discussion of results, please complete point  5 and 6). The results discussion with the conclusions and recommendations shows that the authors ‘lost somewhere’ the main research problem. This requires correction. It's not just about holding the line (the main thrust of the study), he is. Every research question posed in the introduction should be answered, even negatively.

I also strongly suggest that recommendations for specific, practical, not only general (and not entirely clear) applications of this research shall be provided. Especially since the authors promised a bit tongue-in-cheek that a 'comprehensive analysis' had been conducted. I recommend paying attention to the meaning of keywords. Is what has happened really comprehensive? Or only selected, most important aspects?

Comments on the Quality of English Language

The language of this paper is relatively correct, however some descriptions would benefit from being more concise (please include native speaker verification).

Author Response

（1） to discuss the current state of the art (I also suggest a more dilligent description of the research methods; concise, coherent research scenario etc.); the list of references is short, it is a pity that the authors did not do an extensive literature review - I recommend that this be completed (section 1 and 2);

Response and Revision:

We acknowledge and value the feedback and we have revised and improved the literature review section (Line number #166-#223). It now includes an examination of the connotation, significance, and measurement of rural industrial integration, as well as the latest research on the relationship between rural industrial integration and regional economic development.

（2）This remark applies in particular to Rural Industrial Integration Development (RIID). Indeed, the entire study was built on this concept. I recommend that when discussing the state of the art, a broader perspective than just Chinese or Asian should be taken into account. Ultimately, what are the implications of a theoretical analysis of RIID levels for the chosen material and method of research?

Response and Revision:

In adherence to your suggestions, we have added an international perspective to the description of the current situation (Line number #37 #46). Rural industrial integration has gradually become an important measure for promoting rural modernization in various countries. Due to differences in national conditions, China prefers to promote the integration of rural areas with the primary, secondary, and tertiary sectors, while also considering their social benefits.

（3）The model construction appears to have been carried out correctly (that is, for the Entropy-Weighted TOPSIS Method and Moran's I Index Measure). Also of interest is how the system of evaluation indicators is established.

Response and Revision:

Thank you for the opinion and comments. We incorporated the logical process of constructing the indicator system of rural industrial integration (Line number #383-#407). It is mainly based on the connotation of rural industrial integration development and the results of existing research.

（4）However, in the case of spatial evaluation and analysis of RIID in counties, I recommend greater accuracy and readability of the analysis, as well:

- to increase the readability of data in charts (e.g. numerical values should be arranged correctly in figures; precise, clear descriptions needed - concerns especially figs. 1 and 3);

Response and Revision:

Thank you for your detailed feedback regarding the spatial evaluation and analysis of Rural Industrial Integration and Development (RIID) in counties. We appreciate your recommendation to enhance the accuracy and readability of our analysis.

In response to your specific points:

To increase the readability of data in charts: We have reviewed the charts, particularly Figures 1 and 3, and made the necessary adjustments to ensure that numerical values are arranged correctly and precisely. This includes improving the clarity of axes labels, ensuring proper scaling, and adding detailed captions to explain the key features and findings.

Provide precise and clear descriptions: We understand that clear and precise descriptions are crucial for readers to understand the charts and their implications. We have revised the captions and explanations accompanying Figures 1 and 3 to provide more detailed descriptions of the data, trends, and conclusions drawn from the analysis.

We believe that these revisions will enhance the readability and accessibility of our spatial evaluation and analysis of RIID in counties. We appreciate your guidance and support in improving our work. Thank you for your valuable feedback.

 

（5）that is, supplement the summary descriptive analysis (unfortunately poor discussion of results, please complete point  5 and 6). The results discussion with the conclusions and recommendations shows that the authors ‘lost somewhere’ the main research problem. This requires correction. It's not just about holding the line (the main thrust of the study), he is. Every research question posed in the introduction should be answered, even negatively.

Response and Revision:

Thank you for your valuable feedback. We have carefully reviewed the points you raised and made the necessary revisions to the manuscript.

Regarding the summary descriptive analysis, we have expanded the discussion of the results to provide a more thorough analysis of the data. We have ensured that the main research problem is clearly addressed and discussed in the context of our findings.

As for the concern that we "lost somewhere" the main research problem, we apologize for any confusion caused. We have restructured the discussion section to ensure that each research question posed in the introduction is explicitly addressed, even if the answer is negative. We have clarified our conclusions and recommendations in line with the analysis of our results.

Overall, we have aimed to strengthen the manuscript by improving the descriptive analysis, ensuring a thorough discussion of the results, and clearly addressing all research questions. We believe that these revisions have addressed the points you raised and improved the quality of our work. Thank you again for your guidance and constructive criticism.

 

（6）I also strongly suggest that recommendations for specific, practical, not only general (and not entirely clear) applications of this research shall be provided. Especially since the authors promised a bit tongue-in-cheek that a 'comprehensive analysis' had been conducted. I recommend paying attention to the meaning of keywords. Is what has happened really comprehensive? Or only selected, most important aspects?

Response and Revision:

• We are grateful for the reviewer’s perspectives. We appropriately added A case of Chengdu-Chongqing Economic Circle, China" to the title for clarity, and the final title is "Unveiling the Spatio-Temporal Dynamics and Driving Mechanism of Rural Industrial Integration: A case of Chengdu-Chongqing Economic Circle, China".  
• We have revised and improved the recommendations section based on the conclusions of the article (Line number #855-#889). The proposed suggestions are more focused on the practical situation of the Chengdu-Chongqing dual-city economic circle, making them more targeted. They also serve as valuable references for similar development regions.

Reviewer 2 Report

Comments and Suggestions for Authors

1. Introduction and Background: The introduction should include a more detailed historical context and theoretical frameworks specific to the Chengdu-Chongqing Economic Circle. It should also provide a rationale for the chosen case study and its significance in the broader context of rural industrial integration.

2. Literature Review: Enhance the literature review by including recent studies and references on similar economic regions. Discuss the gaps in the current research that your study aims to fill.

3. Research Design and Methods: Explain the selection of the entropy-weighted TOPSIS method and Moran's I index, including a comparison with other potential methods. Provide more detailed justifications for the chosen indicators and models.

4. Results Presentation: Use additional visual aids, such as graphs and charts, to illustrate the results better. Highlight key trends and findings in a more accessible format.

5. Discussion and Conclusions: Strengthen the discussion by explicitly connecting your findings to existing literature. Discuss the practical implications of your research for policymakers and stakeholders involved in rural development.

6. English Language and Clarity: Editing for grammar, syntax, and academic tone can improve the clarity and readability of the text. Consider seeking professional language editing services to enhance the overall quality of the manuscript.

Author Response

Introduction and Background: The introduction should include a more detailed historical context and theoretical frameworks specific to the Chengdu-Chongqing Economic Circle. It should also provide a rationale for the chosen case study and its significance in the broader context of rural industrial integration.

Response and Revision:

（a）We add the historical background of industrial integration in China's countryside in the introductory section (Line number 62-83) and introduce the theoretical logic behind China's construction of the Chengdu-Chongqing Economic Circle (Line number 107).Chengdu-Chongqing Economic Circle is located at the intersection of "One Belt One Road" and Yangtze River Economic Belt, which is the starting point of the new land-sea corridor in the west and has unique advantages in connecting southwest and northwest China, communicating with East Asia, Southeast Asia and South Asia. In 2011, the State Council approved and the National Development and Reform Commission issued the Plan for the Chengdu-Chongqing Economic Region; in 2016, the National Development and Reform Commission and the Ministry of Housing and Urban-Rural Development jointly issued the Chengdu-Chongqing Urban Agglomeration Development Plan, which clarifies that the Chengdu-Chongqing urban agglomeration will basically build a national-level urban agglomeration with vibrant economy, excellent living quality and beautiful ecological environment in 2020, and achieve a historic leap from a national-level urban agglomeration to a world-class urban agglomeration in 2030.

（b）We have detailed the reasons for selecting the Chengdu-Chongqing economic circle as the research subject(Line number #107-#125). Firstly, the construction of the Chengdu-Chongqing modern efficient characteristic agricultural belt has clarified the strategic position of modern agricultural development in the dual-city economic circle of Chengdu-Chongqing. Secondly, the Chengdu-Chongqing economic circle has a typical dual economic structure of urban and rural areas. In-depth research at the county level is conducive to identifying the potential challenges faced by rural industrial integration and provides valuable guidance for promoting urban-rural integration with counties as important carriers.

（2）Literature Review

Enhance the literature review by including recent studies and references on similar economic regions. Discuss the gaps in the current research that your study aims to fill.

Response and Revision:

We extend our deepest appreciation for your insightful comments and suggestions. Following your guidance, we have thoroughly updated the literature review section of our manuscript to incorporate contemporary studies and research, thereby addressing the existing and pertinent gaps and improved the literature review section accordingly (Line number #166-#223). The revised section now encompasses a comprehensive analysis of the nuances, importance, and evaluation methods of rural industrial integration. Additionally, it integrates contemporary research exploring the nexus between rural industrial integration and regional economic growth.

 

 

 

（3）Research Design and Methods

 Explain the selection of the entropy-weighted TOPSIS method and Moran's I index, including a comparison with other potential methods. Provide more detailed justifications for the chosen indicators and models.

Response and Revision:

The revisions made to the manuscript are as follows:

• The rationale for selecting theentropy weight TOPSIS method has been elaborated upon at line number 295. This method is chosen for its robustness in dealing with multiple criteria decision analysis (MCDA), allowing for the objective weighting of indicators based on their entropy values, thus minimizing the bias in the evaluation process.
• The choice of Moran’s I index is justified at line number 332. Moran’s I index is a measure of spatial autocorrelation, which is particularly useful in identifying patterns of spatial clustering or dispersion. This index is instrumental in analyzing the spatial distribution of RIID and understanding the regional dynamics within the Chengdu-Chongqing Economic Circle.
• We elaborate the logical process of constructing the indicator system based on the connotation of rural industrial integration at line number 383 and 407.This section now thoroughly outlines the logical framework and rationale for the selection of specific indicators, reflecting the multifaceted nature of rural industrial integration and its impact on regional economic development.

(4) Results Presentation

Use additional visual aids, such as graphs and charts, to illustrate the results better. Highlight key trends and findings in a more accessible format.

Response and Revision:

We are grateful for the reviewer’s perspectives. In response, we have transformed the original Table 2 into Figure 3 in the revised manuscript to more effectively illustrate the evolutionary trend of rural industrial integration development. This visual representation allows for a clearer observation of the trend changes over time. Furthermore, we have meticulously revised and enhanced all data charts within the manuscript to ensure they more intuitively convey the patterns of agglomeration and the dynamic trends of rural industrial integration development. These improvements aim to facilitate a more immediate and comprehensive understanding of the data presented.

（5）Discussion and Conclusions

 Strengthen the discussion by explicitly connecting your findings to existing literature. Discuss the practical implications of your research for policymakers and stakeholders involved in rural development.

Response and Revision:

Thank you for the opinion and suggestion we have revised the Part VI of the article, we have added links to the existing research literature (Line number #881 #815 #822 #826). The findings emphasize the importance of promoting the breadth and depth of rural industrial integration using counties as a vehicle to mitigate regional imbalances. It is beneficial for stakeholders, including local governments, agribusinesses, and rural communities, to take this perspective to strengthen the infrastructure of rural industrial integration, promote urban-rural industrial and economic linkages, and ultimately achieve more balanced and inclusive regional development.

 

（6）English Language and Clarity

 Editing for grammar, syntax, and academic tone can improve the clarity and readability of the text. Consider seeking professional language editing services to enhance the overall quality of the manuscript.

Response and Revision:

We acknowledge and value the feedback regarding the linguistic precision and editorial quality of our manuscript. We concur that meticulous attention to grammar, syntax, and scholarly tone is essential to ensure the manuscript’s lucidity and accessibility.

In adherence to your suggestions, we have conducted a thorough examination and refinement of the manuscript, focusing on grammatical accuracy, syntactical coherence, and the maintenance of an academic tone. This process involved iterative revisions to augment the narrative flow and intelligibility of the text. Additionally, we have engaged with peers and academic advisors to critique and enhance the language and stylistic presentation.

Recognizing the benefits of professional editorial services for an exhaustive and specialized review, we are contemplating their engagement to further elevate the manuscript’s quality. We are thankful for your constructive guidance and continued support in this endeavor.

Thank you again for your valuable feedback. We believe that with your guidance and our continued efforts, we can improve the clarity, readability, and academic quality of our work.