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From publication to retraction: A systematic analysis of retraction dynamics in multiple sclerosis and related
1Department of Neurology, University of Health Sciences Gaziantep City Hospital, Gaziantep, Turkey.
Background:
The aim of this study was to comprehensively evaluate the bibliometric and analytical characteristics of retracted publications on multiple sclerosis (MS) and other demyelinating diseases of the central nervous system.
Methods:
The PubMed and Web of Science databases were searched for retracted publications. A total of 80 publications met the inclusion criteria and were included in the analysis. The reasons for retraction were classified by two independent researchers into a primary reason (one per paper) and additional contributing factors (multiple allowed). Bibliometric parameters, citation dynamics, and journal metrics were analyzed. Non-parametric statistical tests were used for intergroup comparisons.
Results:
The most common primary reason for retraction was research misconduct, while unreliable conclusions and unreliable data were among the most frequent contributing factors. The median retraction time was 25 months; the duration was significantly longer for publications retracted due to reliability concerns (p = 0.045). Citation counts after retraction were significantly lower but ongoing (p < 0.001). The number of retraction reasons per publication was significantly higher in the misconduct than the non-misconduct group (median 3 [IQR: 2-5] vs. 2 [IQR: 2-2], p < 0.001). When normalized by total publication volume, Iran had the highest retraction rate, followed by China, India, and the USA.
Conclusion:
Retractions in the field of MS and related demyelinating diseases of the central nervous system are primarily due to research misconduct and data reliability issues. The retraction period exceeding 2 years and the continued citation of retracted publications indicate that problematic publications can remain in circulation for long periods. Post-publication oversight and enhanced data transparency should be prioritized in publication.
