Acquiring number words is crucial for developing good numerical competencies. Linguistic irregularities of number naming systems, such as inverted number words (e.g., the German number word for 32 translates to “two-and-thirty”), affect numerical skills and their development, and language impairments can be associated with impaired numerical processing. The relationship between language and number processing, however, is still discussed. Crucially, the scientific discourse and the transfer of study results across nations are aggravated by the varying number word syntax and their transparency. Talking Numbers (TALKNUM) takes a cross-linguistic approach to specify the association of language and number processes in French and German. Both languages are particularly suited because they cover different levels of number word syntax complexity (i.e., transparent, intransparent with low complexity, intransparent with high complexity). We capitalize on these complexity differences to conclude (cross-)linguistic influences on the different levels of place-value processing (i.e., place-value identification, activation, and manipulation) and relate these levels to individual language skills at the three linguistic layers (i.e., phonology, morphology, and syntax). Our research in TALKNUM will investigate these relationships on a behavioral, neurofunctional (fMRI), and neurostructural level (MRI using univariate and multivariate lesion-behavior mapping as well as disconnectome mapping analyses) in French and German-speaking participants for a direct comparison of both number word systems. Three age groups (i.e., children, adults, and older adults) will be recruited to gain knowledge on age-related changes. In addition, the effect of typical and impaired language processing (children with and without developmental language disorders and stroke patients) will be evaluated. Knowledge gained from this project is vital to conclude the effect of language in general and language impairment on number processing in particular. By systematically evaluating neurofunctional and neurostructural correlates underlying common subprocesses of linguistic and number word processing, this research will contribute to theoretical knowledge of how and at what level of place value processing linguistic levels are intertwined. This knowledge will aid in developing specific cross-domain therapeutic approaches for number and/or language disorders in diverse populations.

The AGROMIX project aims to deliver participatory research to drive the transition to a resilient and efficient land use in Europe. It focuses on practical agroecological solutions for farm and land management and related value chains. AGROMIX makes use of a network of 83 sites with Mixed Farming (MF), AgroForestry (AF) or value chain stakeholder networks, which are used to measure, design, model, test and improve these systems. A nested approach will be used to conduct 12 co-design pilots across Europe. In addition, 6 replicated long-term trial sites are used for detailed analysis (crops and livestock). AGROMIX has six specific objectives: 1) Unlock the full potential of synergies in MF/AF systems. 2) Develop and promote value chains and infrastructure for MF/AF produce. 3) Develop the MIX-A toolkit to co-design and manage MF/AF systems in practice. 4) Identify and model transition scenarios. 5) Develop policy recommendations and action plans for a successful transition. 6) Maximise the impact and legacy of the project for building low-carbon climate-resilient farming systems. AGROMIX uses a transdisciplinary multi-actor research approach with 10 universities, 7 research institutes and 11 multi-actor partners. It will use Reflexive Interactive Design methodology to include stakeholders in participatory co-design and implementation of MF/AF systems. The research starts with a work package (WP1) on context, co-creating a resilience framework. WP2 on systems design and synergies is at the heart of project. WP3 on indicators and scenarios will refine the greenhouse gas inventories for MF/AF systems and model transition scenarios. WP4 develops and tests the MIX-application/serious game. Further WPs are on economics and value chains, and on policy co-development, action plans and dissemination delivering impact and exploitation through practical innovations on farms, in value chains, at different policy levels and through communication and knowledge hubs across Europe.

"Digitalization in construction, Computer-based design for structural elements - Analyses and Validation of compliance to EuroCodes Cava EuroCodes 1. Introduction The construction sector is crucial for the European economy, representing approximately 10% of the GDP and providing 20 million jobs. The education of qualified, competent engineers for this important market lies in the responsibility of the universities. The educational process has to be constantly adapted to the state-of-the-art and new technologies. This leads to attractive course programs fitting the needs from industry. The future of the construction sector is strongly affected by the upcoming digitalization process and industry 4.0. These new technologies also influence the design process for civil engineers by: - The use of digital data models (Building information modelling - BIM) > Geometry date available as 3D datamodel > Additional data about materials can be included in model - New opportunities in structural design based on big data model > Transfer of spatial data into a structural model > Design based on 3D - ""reality model"" possible, global analysis becomes more important - Extended application of advanced design methods such as numerical methods (Finite Element Methods - FEM) > More ""exact"" results are promised 2. Future Challenges The future working place of structural civil engineers, occupied with the design and dimensioning of structural elements, will be dominated by computational engineering. Data will be transferred from the digital building model to design software and the final design will be provided based on linear or non-linear simulation by finite element methods. The business of those Engineers will change dramatically. Based on the digital data model computational engineering becomes more and more important. The structural design in the 27 EU member states and the 4 EFTA countries has to be provided according the rules of the European Design Codes called “EuroCodes”. The EuroCodes (EC) represent harmonized European Standards (EN) for the structural design of construction works in the European Union, developed on behalf of the European Commission by the European Committee for Standardization CEN. Development of these EuroCodes was a tremendous achievement and represented the culmination of over 30 years of collaborative effort. Their impact has been considerable. It has been estimated that they daily affect the work of around 500 000 professional engineers across Europe. However, the EuroCodes do not give always comprehensive references for the application and evaluation of numerical simulation procedures. Therefore, the new possibilities with application and assessment of advanced design methods in accordance to EuroCodes are still to be transfered in the educational process. Above all, on level of higher education at universities these new challenges have to be considered. The students have to be prepared for this fast changing market, course programs have to be adapted. This leads to new changes and opportunities for graduated students. 3. Major Objective of the project The target of the project “Cava EuroCodes” is focused on the development of a new curriculum to analyze the application of advanced numerical methods. This is not only based on the theory of Finite Element methods, rather an interdisciplinary approach to integrate the basics of structural engineering, material science, EuroCode design for concrete, steel and composite structures will be envisaged. The traditional design according to EuroCode will be analyzed, compared to computer-based advanced design methods and afterwards validated. Students will be lead in the interpretation of those results. Outcomes of the project: > Target 1: Development of interdisciplinary course curriculum fulfilling requirement of industry concluding - Impact of digitalization in construction for structural design - Possibilities of advanced design methods in structural engineering - Assessment and interpretation of results - Accordance of advanced design methods to EuroCodes > Target 2: Preparing students for job market – increase of knowledge and qualification - Integration of students of different educational levels - Strengthen qualification, knowledge as well as development of skill for students - increase motivation by integration of new technologies in educational process > Target 3: Create Partnerships and strengthen exchange in study programs - Cross-border collaboration of universities/institutes - Development of long-term collaboration - Promote exchange (mobility) of students. > Target 4: Support lifelong learning + exchange with industry - To offer seminars in continuing education for training of design engineers in new technologies - Strengthen role of universities in process of lifelong learning"