Write about the Retraction Watch article you read:

1. Why was it retracted? Alternately, why does someone want it retracted?

The article was retracted since it was cited too frequently. The editor of Journal of
Vibroengineering investigated and assumes the author of the articles might have asked/forced the
presenters at the conference to cite his journal, an example of cite manipulation.

2. What type of flaw or ethical breach caused the call for retraction (e.g., dishonesty, flawed
method, bias, etc.)?

The actions of the author at the conference call into question the ethics of the presenter's
research. The forced citations are also known as “cite stacking”.

3. Why was the call for retraction successful or unsuccessful, and how long did it take?

The journal editor had made the decision to retract the articles. Normally cite manipulation is not
grounds for retraction, but he it was necessary. After careful consideration, the editor plans to re-
publish the article into the journal. The article itself was scientifically accurate.

4. How do you think the sciences should respond to this particular issue?

Self-promotion is looked down upon. Another scientist should be given a chance to do proper
research and determine for themselves what articles they are citing. The research should speak
for itself, there is no need to try to influence readers through sly tactics. Scientists should not be
held hostage and forced to give favorable treatment. This practice may not hurt the integrity of
the research article, but the reputation could be tarnished.