Retraction: Properly Folded Bacterially Expressed H1N1 Hemagglutinin Globular Head and Ectodomain Vaccines Protect Ferrets against H1N1 Pandemic Influenza Virus

Abstract

Full text

After publication of this article [1], concerns were raised about the geometric mean titers presented in Fig 3. Specifically, it was raised that the values presented in Fig 3 appear to be arithmetic means rather than geometric means as indicated in the Fig 3 legend.

During editorial follow up on this issue, the corresponding author stated that the figure is correct and the underlying data for Fig 3 is still available, but the data have not been provided to PLOS.

A member of the Editorial Board and a member of the Statistical Advisory Board both reviewed the concerns and comments provided and remain concerned with the reporting in Fig 3. The Editorial Board member stated that they do not believe the Fig 3 issue changes the conclusions of [1] as both arithmetic and geometric means are above the threshold of 1:40 that usually indicates an Ab response to vaccination. However, in following up on this issue, it was also noted that:

The authors did not comment on these issues.

In light of the unresolved questions about the statistical analyses, sample size for some experiments, and results statements that call into question the overall reliability of the article’s conclusions, the PLOS ONE Editors retract this article.

HG did not respond to the editorial decision. SK, SV, NV, CJC, DMC, JM, LRK and TMR either did not respond directly or could not be reached.