The researchers used a model called Computable General Equilibrium (CGE) to understand how joining the EU might affect the economies of Central and Eastern European countries. By analyzing regions and sectors with limited data, they found that these countries could benefit a lot if they join the EU and get support from programs like the EU Structural Fund and Common Agricultural Policy, but if they slowly open up to foreign competition. In simple terms, these countries would likely see big improvements in their economies if they join the EU and get help from certain programs, as long as they're careful about how they open up to competition from other countries.