Review for 10.1186/s12876-022-02570-w (2022)

Reviewer’s report
Title: 
Accuracy of Noninvasive Methods for the Diagnosis of Liver Fibrosis in
Children with Chronic Viral Hepatitis
Version: 
0 
Date: 
02 Jul 2022
Reviewer: 
Shahram Agah
Reviewer's report:
1- The second paragraph of the discussion mentioned that "HA levels in our
studied children with HCV and controls had no significant statistical difference".
However, the method stated that HA levels were evaluated in all children
(including HBV patients). Please clarify this. 
2- Not enough background and context are provided for using a healthy control
group for HA levels. 
3- Please use the abbreviation form after the first introduction of the term (HBV,
HCV, ...).
4- The "Statistical Analysis" part mentioned that chi-square test was used for
qualitative data. Please change it to categorical data. 
5- It is mentioned that the association between the clinical and laboratory
parameters and stiffness, APRI, and HA values was evaluated. However, the
clinical and laboratory parameters are not described in detail, and no Table
shows them. What was the reason for this evaluation? It was not mentioned in
the background or the discussion. But it was one of the main findings in the
abstract which is not understandable. 
6- The text needs minor improvement in English.
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Is the study design appropriate to answer the research question (including the use
of appropriate controls), and are the conclusions supported by the evidence
presented?
Yes
Are the methods sufficiently described to allow the study to be repeated?
Yes
Is the use of statistics and treatment of uncertainties appropriate?
Yes
Is the presentation of the work clear?
Yes
Are the images in this manuscript (including electrophoretic gels and blots) free
from apparent manipulation?
Yes