Statistical modeling of nitrogen-dependent modulation of root system architecture in Arabidopsis thaliana

Plant root development is strongly affected by nutrient availability. Despite the importance of structure and function of roots in nutrient acquisition,statistical modeling approaches to evaluate dynamic and temporal modulations of root system architecture in response to nutrient availability have remained as widely open and exploratory areas in root biology. In this study,we developed a statistical modeling approach to investigate modulations of root system architecture in response to nitrogen availability. Mathematical models were designed for quantitative assessment of root growth and root branching phenotypes and their dynamic relationships based on hierarchical con figuration of primary and lateral roots formulating the fishbone-shaped root system architecture in Arabidopsis thaliana. Time-series datasets reporting dynamic changes in root developmental traits on different nitrate or ammonium concentrations were generated for statistical analyses. Regression analyses unraveled key parameters associated with：（i） inhibition of primary root growth under nitrogen limitation or on ammonium;（ii） rapid progression of lateral root emergence in response to ammonium; and（iii） inhibition of lateral root elongation in the presence of excess nitrate or ammonium. This study provides a statistical framework for interpreting dynamic modulation of root system architecture,supported by metaanalysis of datasets displaying morphological responses of roots to diverse nitrogen supplies.

系统框架建模逻辑思路探索

China’s space technology has gradually improved from the early stages’ introduction, absorption and re-innovation based on backward design to independent innovation based on forward design. It is necessary to develop a new approach of systems engineering to improve the quality and efficiency of space systems design considering the large number of original design problems expected in the future. Adopting Model-Based Systems Engineering(MBSE) and Digital Twin method are important development initiatives in the field of modern engineering design. In the initial phase of system design, it is necessary to generate firm system architecture models based on the needs of stakeholders. The quality of the system design in this phase has a great impact on the detailed design and implementation for the subsequent system, and also plays an important role in the performance, development progress and cost of the whole system. Through the collaboration of cross-professional teams, modeling and model execution, comparing the model execution with expected results, MBSE has enabled digital model-level verification and validation before test verification and validation based on physical products, thus improving the design exactness, completeness and greatly reducing design errors or defects. This paper explores the logical ideas behind modeling of system architectures in order to promote the adoption of MBSE in the field of space systems.