Review for 10.1186/s12876-020-01345-5 (2020)

Reviewer’ s report
Title: The role of circulating microRNAs for the diagnosis of hepatitis B virus-associated
hepatocellular carcinoma with low alpha-fetoprotein level: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Version: 0Date: 26 Apr 2020
Reviewer: Niccola Funel
Reviewer's report:
The authors proposed an interesting systematic review and meta-analysis concerning the role of
AFP and miRNAs analyses on HCC patients.The analyses seem to be very interesting and thepoint of view of the authors is correct. The tables and the figures reported by the authors showedclearly the results obstained.Finally, we would like to suggest to the authors only a minor commentthat might increase the soundness of their conclusions. The authors may discuss and list a group ofmarkers (list of miRNAs) useful for the early detection and diagnosis of HCC.
Are the methods appropriate and well described?
If not, please specify what is required in your comments to the authors.
YesDoes the work include the necessary controls?
If not, please specify which controls are required in your comments to the authors.
Yes
Are the conclusions drawn adequately supported by the data shown?
If not, please explain in your comments to the authors.
YesAre you able to assess any statistics in the manuscript or would you recommend an
additional statistical review?If an additional statistical review is recommended, please specify what aspects require furtherassessment in your comments to the editors.
I recommend additional statistical reviewQuality of written English
Please indicate the quality of language in the manuscript:
Needs some language corrections before being published
Declaration of competing interests
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