Abstract
Aim
This study aims to analyze the structure of co-author networks in IgG4-related disease (IgG4-RD) research from 2000 to 2023, using data from the Web of Science (WoS) Core Collection. The goal is to identify collaborative relationships, key researchers, and trends within the research community over time.
Method
I conducted a comprehensive network analysis of 5,310 articles on IgG4-RD published between 2000 and 2023, as indexed in the WoS Core Collection. The analysis was performed using Python (Version 3.10.5) within the PyCharm integrated development environment (IDE) (Software Version 2022.1.3). Macro-level indicators, including network density, clustering coefficient, number of components, and average path length, were used to assess the overall network structure. Micro-level indicators, such as degree centrality, closeness centrality, and betweenness centrality, were employed to evaluate the influence and connectivity of individual researchers within the network.
Result
The co-authorship network analysis revealed a fragmented structure with isolated clusters of researchers throughout the studied periods: 2000–2009, 2010–2019, and 2020–2023. Network density remained low, reflecting limited direct collaborations among researchers, while high clustering coefficients indicated the formation of tight-knit collaborative groups. The number of components decreased slightly over time, suggesting a gradual improvement in connectivity. Key researchers, including John H. Stone, Mitsuhiro Kawano, and Kazuichi Okazaki, consistently exhibited high centrality metrics, highlighting their pivotal roles in bridging research clusters and fostering collaboration in IgG4-RD.
Conclusion
The analysis of IgG4-RD research co-authorship networks from 2000 to 2023 reveals a field characterized by strong localized collaboration but overall low network cohesion. While key researchers have played significant roles in connecting various clusters, the network's fragmented nature suggests opportunities for enhancing broader collaborative efforts. Improving international and interdisciplinary connections could foster more comprehensive research and accelerate advancements in the understanding and treatment of IgG4-RD.