Recent development of surface-enhanced Raman scattering for biosensing.

Surface-Enhanced Raman Scattering (SERS) technology, as a powerful tool to identify molecular species by collecting molecular spectral signals at the single-molecule level, has achieved substantial progresses in the fields of environmental science, medical diagnosis, food safety, and biological analysis. As deepening research is delved into SERS sensing, more and more high-performance or multifunctional SERS substrate materials emerge, which are expected to push Raman sensing into more application fields. Especially in the field of biological analysis, intrinsic and extrinsic SERS sensing schemes have been widely used and explored due to their fast, sensitive and reliable advantages. Herein, recent developments of SERS substrates and their applications in biomolecular detection (SARS-CoV-2 virus, tumor etc.), biological imaging and pesticide detection are summarized. The SERS concepts (including its basic theory and sensing mechanism) and the important strategies (extending from nanomaterials with tunable shapes and nanostructures to surface bio-functionalization by modifying affinity groups or specific biomolecules) for improving SERS biosensing performance are comprehensively discussed. For data analysis and identification, the applications of machine learning methods and software acquisition sources in SERS biosensing and diagnosing are discussed in detail. In conclusion, the challenges and perspectives of SERS biosensing in the future are presented.

CMM: A CNN-MLP Model for COVID-19 Lesion Segmentation and Severity Grading.

In this paper, a CNN-MLP model (CMM) is proposed for COVID-19 lesion segmentation and severity grading in CT images. The CMM starts by lung segmentation using UNet, and then segmenting the lesion from the lung region using a multi-scale deep supervised UNet (MDS-UNet), finally implementing the severity grading by a multi-layer preceptor (MLP). In MDS-UNet, shape prior information is fused with the input CT image to reduce the searching space of the potential segmentation outputs. The multi-scale input compensates for the loss of edge contour information in convolution operations. In order to enhance the learning of multiscale features, the multi-scale deep supervision extracts supervision signals from different upsampling points on the network. In addition, it is empirical that the lesion which has a whiter and denser appearance tends to be more severe in the COVID-19 CT image. So, the weighted mean gray-scale value (WMG) is proposed to depict this appearance, and together with the lung and lesion area to serve as input features for the severity grading in MLP. To improve the precision of lesion segmentation, a label refinement method based on the Frangi vessel filter is also proposed. Comparative experiments on COVID-19 public datasets show that our proposed CMM achieves high accuracy on COVID-19 lesion segmentation and severity grading. Source codes and datasets are available at our GitHub repository (https://github.com/RobotvisionLab/COVID-19-severity-grading.git).

Management for stroke intelligent early warning empowered by big data.

Global aging population, especially with the global pandemic outbreak of the Corona Virus Disease 2019 (COVID-19), has endangered human health security. Digital information technology through big data empowerment and intelligent application is widely considered a key element to solve the problems. Stroke is a life-threaten disorder. We studied individual health management and disease risk perception using human health assessment model and make full use of wearable wireless sensor, Internet of Things, big data, and Artificial Intelligence for potential risk monitoring and real-time stroke warning. We proposed an effective method of monitoring, early warning and rescue to improve the stroke treatment. The result shows that the health management empowered by big data can generate new opportunities and ideas to solve early detection and warning of stroke.

Efficacy and safety of integrated traditional Chinese and Western medicine against COVID-19: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Although plenty of clinical trials have confirmed the efficacy and safety of integrated traditional Chinese and Western medicine (ITCWM) against COVID-19, the role of ITCWM remains controversial. So we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of published studies in eight major databases that report the outcomes of interest in COVID-19 patients receiving ITCWM. RevMan5.4 software was used for meta-analysis, while the quality of RCTs was assessed by the Cochrane risk of bias tool and the retrospective studies were assessed by Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. Eventually, a total of 53 studies with 5425 COVID-19 patients was identified. The meta-analysis results showed that ITCWM was significantly better than western medicine treatment (WMT) alone in the percentage of cases changing to severe/critical [RR = 0.40, 95%CI (0.33, 0.49), p < .00001, I2  = 10%], overall clinical effectiveness [RR = 1.26, 95% CI (1.18, 1.35), p < .00001, I2  = 50%], time to defervescencer [MD = -1.45, 95% CI (-1.82, -1.07), p < .00001, I2  = 83%], disappearing time of cough [MD = -2.11, 95% CI (-2.98, -1.25), p < .00001, I2  = 93%], time of RT-PCR negativity [MD = -3.35, 95% CI (-4.74, -1.95), p < .00001, I2  = 92%], length of hospital stay [MD = -4.05, 95% CI (-5.24, -2.85), p < .00001, I2  = 91%], improvement in CT scan [RR = 1.22, 95% CI (1.17, 1.28), p < .00001, I2  = 46%], TCM syndrome score [MD = -3.95, 95% CI (-5.07, -2.82), p < .00001, I2  = 92%], disappearance rate of fever [RR = 1.23, 95% CI (1.10, 1.38), p < .00001, I2  = 85%], disappearance rate of cough [RR = 1.43, 95% CI (1.25, 1.63), p < .00001, I2  = 60%], level of CRP [MD = -9.23, 95% CI (-10.94, -7.52), p < .00001, I2  = 97%], and WBC [MD = -9.23, 95% CI (-10.94, -7.52), p < .00001, I2  = 97%]. There is no significant difference between ITCWM and WMT in the adverse reaction rate [RR = 0.85, 95% CI(0.71, 1.03), p = .10, I2  = 25%]. Our results showed evidence of clinical efficacy and safety benefit in COVID-19 patients treated with ITCWM. In spite of some limitations, the rapidly developing global pandemic warrants further high-quality and multicenter clinical studies to confirm the contribution of ITCWM.

Recent Advances of Representative Optical Biosensors for Rapid and Sensitive Diagnostics of SARS-CoV-2.

The outbreak of Corona Virus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) has again emphasized the significance of developing rapid and highly sensitive testing tools for quickly identifying infected patients. Although the current reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) diagnostic techniques can satisfy the required sensitivity and specificity, the inherent disadvantages with time-consuming, sophisticated equipment and professional operators limit its application scopes. Compared with traditional detection techniques, optical biosensors based on nanomaterials/nanostructures have received much interest in the detection of SARS-CoV-2 due to the high sensitivity, high accuracy, and fast response. In this review, the research progress on optical biosensors in SARS-CoV-2 diagnosis, including fluorescence biosensors, colorimetric biosensors, Surface Enhancement Raman Scattering (SERS) biosensors, and Surface Plasmon Resonance (SPR) biosensors, was comprehensively summarized. Further, promising strategies to improve optical biosensors are also explained. Optical biosensors can not only realize the rapid detection of SARS-CoV-2 but also be applied to judge the infectiousness of the virus and guide the choice of SARS-CoV-2 vaccines, showing enormous potential to become point-of-care detection tools for the timely control of the pandemic.

Development strategy of crayfish industry under COVID-19 epidemic taking Jingzhou city in Hubei Province as an example

The pandemic situation of COVID-19 has seriously influenced the whole chain of crayfish industry--aquaculture, logistic, processing, and service in Jingzhou. In the short term, each link of the industry was difficult to get well completely, the relevant enterprises and new types of agricultural businesses lack of confidence. After undergoing rapid development for many years, it presented some new changes under the epidemic influence: firstly, the cultivation area tend to be stable and rational, and a large scale of crayfish aquaculture was transformed to high quality aquaculture;secondly, the storage and deep processing industry would be developed rapidly;thirdly, the online consumption mode would become widely accepted. Based on our investigation, some suggestions were put forward for crayfish industry to resume production and to promote the sustainable-healthy development. The first, crayfish aquaculture in paddy field should be changed from high production to high quality;the second, processing and server-side should develop new products and new marketing models;the third, the industry management department should strengthen guidance and supervision, local governments at all levels should strongly support from policy, finance and publicity, so that jointly guide the industry upgrading and create regional brands.

Interfering effects on the bioactivities of several key proteins of COVID-19/variants in diabetes by compounds from Lianqiao leaves: In silico and in vitro analyses.

Diabetes is considered to be one of the diseases most associated with COVID-19. In this study, interfering effects and potential mechanisms of several compounds from Lianqiao (Forsythia suspensa (Thunb.) Vahl) leaves on the bioactivities of some key proteins of COVID-19 and its variants, as well as diabetic endothelial dysfunctions were illuminated through in vitro and in silico analyses. Results showed that, among the main ingredients in the leaves, forsythoside A showed the strongest docking affinities with the proteins SARS-CoV-2-RBD-hACE2 of COVID-19 and its variants (Alpha (B.1.1.7), Beta (B.1.351), and Delta (B.1.617)), as well as neuropilin-1 (NRP1), and SARS-CoV-2 main protease (MPro) to interfere coronavirus entering into the human body. Moreover, forsythoside A was the most stable in binding to receptors in Delta (B.1.617) system. It also has good antiviral activities and drug properties and has the strongest binding force to the RBD domain of COVID-19. In addition, forsythoside A reduced ROS production in AGEs-induced EA.hy926 cells, maintained endothelial integrity, and bound closely to protein profilin-1 (PFN1) receptor. This work may provide useful knowledge for further understanding the interfering effects and potential mechanisms of compounds, especially forsythoside A, from Lianqiao leaves on the bioactivities of key proteins of COVID-19/variants in diabetes.

Modulated Gut Microbiota for Potential COVID-19 Prevention and Treatment.

COVID-19, caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has gained global attention. SARS-CoV-2 identifies and invades human cells via angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 receptors, which is highly expressed both in lung tissues and intestinal epithelial cells. The existence of the gut-lung axis in disease could be profoundly important for both disease etiology and treatment. Furthermore, several studies reported that infected patients suffer from gastrointestinal symptoms. The gut microbiota has a noteworthy effect on the intestinal barrier and affects many aspects of human health, including immunity, metabolism, and the prevention of several diseases. This review highlights the function of the gut microbiota in the host's immune response, providing a novel potential strategy through the use of probiotics, gut microbiota metabolites, and dietary products to enhance the gut microbiota as a target for COVID-19 prevention and treatment.

SARS-CoV-2 triggered oxidative stress and abnormal energy metabolism in gut microbiota.

Specific roles of gut microbes in COVID-19 progression are critical. However, the circumstantial mechanism remains elusive. In this study, shotgun metagenomic or metatranscriptomic sequencing was performed on fecal samples collected from 13 COVID-19 patients and controls. We analyzed the structure of gut microbiota, identified the characteristic bacteria, and selected biomarkers. Further, gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) annotations were employed to correlate the taxon alterations and corresponding functions. The gut microbiota of COVID-19 patients was characterized by the enrichment of opportunistic pathogens and depletion of commensals. The abundance of Bacteroides spp. displayed an inverse relationship with COVID-19 severity, whereas Actinomyces oris, Escherichia coli, and Streptococcus parasanguini were positively correlated with disease severity. The genes encoding oxidoreductase were significantly enriched in gut microbiome of COVID-19 group. KEGG annotation indicated that the expression of ABC transporter was upregulated, while the synthesis pathway of butyrate was aberrantly reduced. Furthermore, increased metabolism of lipopolysaccharide, polyketide sugar, sphingolipids, and neutral amino acids were found. These results suggested the gut microbiome of COVID-19 patients was in a state of oxidative stress. Healthy gut microbiota may enhance antiviral defenses via butyrate metabolism, whereas the accumulation of opportunistic and inflammatory bacteria may exacerbate COVID-19 progression.

Predictive Score of Risk Associated with Progression of Patients with COVID-19 Pneumonia in Wuhan, China: the ALA Score.

Background The Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) had become a Public Health Emergency of International Concern with more than 90 million confirmed cases worldwide. Therefore, this study aims to establish a predictive score model of progression to severe type in patients with COVID-19. Methods This is a retrospective cohort study of 151 patients with COVID-19 diagnosed by nucleic acid test or specific serum antibodies from February 13, 2020, to March 14, 2020, hospitalized in a COVID-19-designed hospital in Wuhan, China. Results Of the 151 patients with average age of 63 years, 64 patients were male (42.4%), and 29 patients (19.2%) were classified as severe group. Multivariate analysis showed that age > 65 years (odds ratio [OR] = 9.72, 95%CI: 2.92-32.31, P < 0.001), lymphocyte count ≤ 1.1 × 109/L (OR = 3.42, 95%CI: 1.24-9.41, P = 0.017) and AST > 35 U/L (OR = 3.19, 95%CI: 1.11-9.19, P = 0.032) were independent risk factors for the disease severity. The area under curve (AUC) of receiver operating characteristic curve of the probabilities of the composite continuous variable (age + lymphocyte + AST) is 0.796. Finally, a predictive score model called ALA was established, and its AUC was 0.83 (95%CI: 0.75-0.92). Using a cutoff value of 9.5 points, the positive and negative predictive values were 54.1% (38-70.1%) and 92.1% (87.2-97.1%), respectively. Conclusion The ALA score model can quickly identify severe patients with COVID-19, so as to help clinicians to better choose accurate management strategy.

SARS-CoV-2 exacerbates proinflammatory responses in myeloid cells through C-type lectin receptors and Tweety family member 2.

Despite mounting evidence of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) engagement with immune cells, most express little, if any, of the canonical receptor of SARS-CoV-2, angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2). Here, using a myeloid cell receptor-focused ectopic expression screen, we identified several C-type lectins (DC-SIGN, L-SIGN, LSECtin, ASGR1, and CLEC10A) and Tweety family member 2 (TTYH2) as glycan-dependent binding partners of the SARS-CoV-2 spike. Except for TTYH2, these molecules primarily interacted with spike via regions outside of the receptor-binding domain. Single-cell RNA sequencing analysis of pulmonary cells from individuals with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) indicated predominant expression of these molecules on myeloid cells. Although these receptors do not support active replication of SARS-CoV-2, their engagement with the virus induced robust proinflammatory responses in myeloid cells that correlated with COVID-19 severity. We also generated a bispecific anti-spike nanobody that not only blocked ACE2-mediated infection but also the myeloid receptor-mediated proinflammatory responses. Our findings suggest that SARS-CoV-2-myeloid receptor interactions promote immune hyperactivation, which represents potential targets for COVID-19 therapy.

Rapid One-Step Detection of Viral Particles Using an Aptamer-Based Thermophoretic Assay.

Rapid and sensitive identification of viral pathogens such as SARS-CoV-2 is a critical step to control the pandemic disease. Viral antigen detection can compete with gold-standard PCR-based nucleic acid diagnostics in terms of better reflection of viral infectivity and reduced risk of contamination from enzymatic amplification. Here, we report the development of a one-step thermophoretic assay using an aptamer and polyethylene glycol (PEG) for direct quantitative detection of viral particles. The assay relies on aptamer binding to the spike protein of SARS-CoV-2 and simultaneous accumulation of aptamer-bound viral particles in laser-induced gradients of temperature and PEG concentration. Using a pseudotyped lentivirus model, a limit of detection of ∼170 particles µL-1 (26 fM of the spike protein) is achieved in 15 min without the need of any pretreatment. As a proof of concept, the one-step thermophoretic assay is used to detect synthetic samples by spiking viral particles into oropharyngeal swabs with an accuracy of 100%. The simplicity, speed, and cost-effectiveness of this thermophoretic assay may expand the diagnostic tools for viral pathogens.

The role of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation in critically ill patients with COVID-19: a narrative review.

Extracorporeal life support treatments such as extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) have been recommended for the treatment of severe acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). To date, many countries, including China, have adopted ECMO as a treatment for severe COVID-19. However, marked differences in patient survival rates have been reported, and the underlying reasons are unclear. This study aimed to summarize the experience of using ECMO to treat severe COVID-19 and provide suggestions for improving ECMO management. The effects of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) on the pathophysiology of COVID-19 and the effects of ECMO on the clinical outcomes in patients with severe cases of COVID-19 were reviewed. Recent data from frontline workers involved in the use of ECMO in Wuhan, China, and those experienced in the implementation of artificial heart and lung support strategies were analysed. There is evidence that ECMO may complicate the pathophysiological state in COVID-19 patients. However, many studies have shown that the appropriate application of ECMO improves the prognosis of such patients. To expand our understanding of the benefits of ECMO for critically ill patients with COVID-19, further prospective, multicentre clinical trials are needed.

Analysis of Risk Factors for Thromboembolic Events in 88 Patients with COVID-19 Pneumonia in Wuhan, China: A Retrospective Descriptive Report.

BACKGROUND Since the outbreak of COVID-19 in December 2019, there have been 96 623 laboratory-confirmed cases and 4784 deaths by December 29 in China. We aimed to analyze the risk factors and the incidence of thrombosis from patients with confirmed COVID-19 pneumonia. MATERIAL AND METHODS Eighty-eight inpatients with confirmed COVID-19 pneumonia were reported (31 critical cases, 33 severe cases, and 24 common cases). The thrombosis risk factor assessment, laboratory results, ultrasonographic findings, and prognoses of these patients were analyzed, and compared among groups with different severity. RESULTS Nineteen of the 88 cases developed DVT (12 critical cases, 7 severe cases, and no common cases). In addition, among the 18 patients who died, 5 were diagnosed with DVT. Positive correlations were observed between the increase in D-dimer level (≥5 µg/mL) and the severity of COVID-19 pneumonia (r=0.679, P<0.01), and between the high Padua score (≥4) and the severity (r=0.799, P<0.01). In addition, the CRP and LDH levels on admission had positive correlations with the severity of illness (CRP: r=0.522, P<0.01; LDH: r=0.600, P<0.01). A negative correlation was observed between the lymphocyte count on admission and the severity of illness (r=-0.523, P<0.01). There was also a negative correlation between the lymphocyte count on admission and mortality in critical patients (r=-0.499, P<0.01). Univariable logistic regression analysis showed that the occurrence of DVT was positively correlated with disease severity (crude odds ratio: 3.643, 95% CI: 1.218-10.896, P<0.05). CONCLUSIONS Our report illustrates that critically or severely ill patients have an associated high D-dimer value and high Padua score, and illustrates that a low threshold to screen for DVT may help improve detection of thromboembolism in these groups of patients, especially in asymptomatic patients. Our results suggest that early administration of prophylactic anticoagulant would benefit the prognosis of critical patients with COVID-19 pneumonia and would likely reduce thromboembolic rates.

Role of the SphK-S1P-S1PRs pathway in invasion of the nervous system by SARS-CoV-2 Infection

Abstract Global spread of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is still ongoing. Before an effective vaccine is available, the development of potential treatments for resultant coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is crucial. One of disease hallmarks is hyper-inflammatory responses, which usually leads to a severe lung disease. Patients with COVID-19 also frequently suffered from neurological symptoms such as acute diffuse encephalomyelitis, brain injury and psychiatric complications. The metabolic pathway of sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) is a dynamic regulator of various cell types and disease processes, including the nervous system. It has been demonstrated that S1P and its metabolic enzymes, regulating neuroinflammation and neurogenesis, exhibit important functions during viral infection. S1P receptor 1 (S1PR1) analogs including AAL-R and RP-002 inhibit pathophysiological responses at the early stage of H1N1 virus infection and then play a protective role. Fingolimod (FTY720) is an S1P receptor modulator and is being tested for treating COVID-19. Our review provides an overview of SARS-CoV-2 infection and critical role of the SphK-S1P-SIPR pathway in invasion of SARS-CoV-2 infection, particularly in the central nervous system (CNS). This may help design therapeutic strategies based on the S1P-mediated signal transduction, and the adjuvant therapeutic effects of S1P analogs to limit or prevent the interaction between the host and SARS-CoV-2, block the spread of the SARS-CoV-2, and consequently treat related complications in the CNS.

Role of the SphK-S1P-S1PRs pathway in invasion of the nervous system by SARS-CoV-2 infection.

Global spread of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is still ongoing. Before an effective vaccine is available, the development of potential treatments for resultant coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is crucial. One of the disease hallmarks is hyper-inflammatory responses, which usually leads to a severe lung disease. Patients with COVID-19 also frequently suffer from neurological symptoms such as acute diffuse encephalomyelitis, brain injury and psychiatric complications. The metabolic pathway of sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) is a dynamic regulator of various cell types and disease processes, including the nervous system. It has been demonstrated that S1P and its metabolic enzymes, regulating neuroinflammation and neurogenesis, exhibit important functions during viral infection. S1P receptor 1 (S1PR1) analogues including AAL-R and RP-002 inhibit pathophysiological responses at the early stage of H1N1 virus infection and then play a protective role. Fingolimod (FTY720) is an S1P receptor modulator and is being tested for treating COVID-19. Our review provides an overview of SARS-CoV-2 infection and critical role of the SphK-S1P-SIPR pathway in invasion of SARS-CoV-2 infection, particularly in the central nervous system (CNS). This may help design therapeutic strategies based on the S1P-mediated signal transduction, and the adjuvant therapeutic effects of S1P analogues to limit or prevent the interaction between the host and SARS-CoV-2, block the spread of the SARS-CoV-2, and consequently treat related complications in the CNS.

Short-Term Outcomes of Patients With COVID-19 Undergoing Invasive Mechanical Ventilation: A Retrospective Observational Study From Wuhan, China.

Background: COVID-19 has spread rapidly worldwide. Many patients require mechanical ventilation. The goal of this study was to investigate the clinical course and outcomes of patients with COVID-19 undergoing mechanical ventilation and identify factors associated with death. Methods: Eighty-three consecutive critically ill patients with confirmed COVID-19 undergoing invasive mechanical ventilation were included in this retrospective, single-center, observational study from January 31 to March 15, 2020. Demographic, clinical, laboratory, radiological, and mechanical ventilation data were collected and analyzed. The primary outcome was 28-day mortality after endotracheal intubation. The secondary outcomes included the incidences of SARS-CoV-2-related cardiac, liver, and kidney injury. Results: Seventy-four out of 83 (89.2%) patients achieved oxygen saturation above 93% after intubation. Forty-nine out of 83 (59%) patients died and 34 (41%) patients survived after 28 days of observation. Multivariable regression showed increasing odds of death associated with cardiac injury (odds ratio 15.60, 95% CI 4.20-74.43), liver injury (5.40, 1.46-23.56), and kidney injury (8.39, 1.63-61.41), and decreasing odds of death associated with the higher PaO2/FiO2 ratio before intubation (0.97, 0.95-0.99). PaO2/FiO2 ratio before intubation demonstrated a positive linear correlation with platelet count (r = 0.424, P = 0.001), and negative linear correlation with troponin I (r = -0.395, P = 0.008). Conclusions: Cardiac, liver, and kidney injury may be associated with death for critically ill patients with COVID-19 undergoing invasive mechanical ventilation. The severity of pre-intubation hypoxia may be associated with a poorer outcome of patients with COVID-19 undergoing invasive mechanical ventilation. Larger, multi-institutional, prospective studies should be conducted to confirm these preliminary results.

Cardiovascular Changes in Patients With COVID-19 From Wuhan, China.

Background: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is rapidly spreading and resulting in a significant loss of life around the world. However, specific information characterizing cardiovascular changes in COVID-19 is limited. Methods: In this single-centered, observational study, we enrolled 38 adult patients with COVID-19 from February 10 to March 13, 2020. Clinical records, laboratory findings, echocardiography, and electrocardiogram reports were collected and analyzed. Results: Of the 38 patients enrolled, the median age was 68 years [interquartile range (IQR), 55-74] with a slight female majority (21, 55.3%). Nineteen (50.0%) patients had hypertension. Seven (33.3%) had ST-T segment and T wave changes, and four (19%) had sinus tachycardia. Twenty (52.6%) had an increase in ascending aorta (AAO) diameter, 22 (57.9%) had an increase in left atrium (LA) size, and 28 (73.7%) presented with ventricular diastolic dysfunction. Correlation analysis showed that the AAO diameter was significantly associated with C-reactive protein (r = 0.4313) and creatine kinase-MB (r = 0.0414). LA enlargement was significantly associated with C-reactive protein (r = 0.4377), brain natriuretic peptide (r = 0.7612), creatine kinase-MB (r = 0.4940), and aspartate aminotransferase (r = 0.2947). Lymphocyte count was negatively associated with the AAO diameter (r = -0.5329) and LA enlargement (r = -0.3894). Conclusions: Hypertension was a common comorbidity among hospitalized patients with COVID-19, and cardiac injury was the most common complication. Changes in cardiac structure and function manifested mainly in the left heart and AAO in these patients. Abnormal AAO and LA size were found to be associated with severe inflammation and cardiac injury. Alternatively, ascending aortic dilation and LA enlargement might be present before infection but characterized the patient at risk for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection.