Jan Egil Stubberud

• Stubberud, Jan Egil (2026). Å høre depresjon. Tidsskrift for Norsk psykologforening (Psykologtidsskriftet). ISSN 0332-6470. 63(8), p. 510–510. doi: 10.52734/qhlh4661. Full text in Research Archive
• Stubberud, Jan Egil (2026). Når normale funn på kognitiv test ikke betyr normal fungering. Tidsskrift for Den norske legeforening (Tidsskriftet). ISSN 0029-2001. doi: 10.4045/tidsskr.26.0455. Full text in Research Archive
• Franzén, Anna Reinfjell; Stubberud, Jan Egil; Rø, Torstein Baade; Lydersen, Stian; Egset, Kaja Solland & Ruud, Ellen [Show all 11 contributors for this article] (2026). Mental Distress, Fatigue and Executive Function in Adult Survivors of Childhood Leukemia and Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma. Current Oncology. ISSN 1198-0052. 33(7), p. 1–12. doi: 10.3390/curroncol33070397. Full text in Research Archive
• Stubberud, Jan & Hoorelbeke, Kristof (2026). When thinking gets stuck: rumination and cognitive disengagement in depression. Nature Mental Health. doi: 10.1038/s44220-026-00699-1. Full text in Research Archive
• Stubberud, Jan Egil (2026). A Closer Look at Ketogenic Diet Effects in Depression. JAMA psychiatry. ISSN 2168-6238. doi: 10.1001/jamapsychiatry.2026.0944. Full text in Research Archive
• Stubberud, Jan Egil (2026). Cognitive safety after magnetic seizure therapy: from group differences to patient-level risk. The Lancet Psychiatry. ISSN 2215-0374. doi: 10.1016/s2215-0366(26)00166-5. Full text in Research Archive
• Stubberud, Jan Egil (2026). The Invisible Load of Cognitive Symptoms. New England Journal of Medicine. ISSN 0028-4793. 395(1), p. 6–7. doi: https:/www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMp2600769. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Patients with shrinking cognitive bandwidth may feel their disability keenly in daily life, even if they can pass a controlled test of cognitive capacity. How should clinicians approach and care for them?

• Buer, Sofie; Hagen, Bjørn Ole Ingulfsvann; Søraas, Arne Vasli Lund; White, Richard Aubrey; Lerdal, Anners & Nygaard, Anders Benteson [Show all 7 contributors for this article] (2026). Subjective and objective working memory deficits in the post-acute phase of COVID-19 in a clinical trial population. Brain, Behavior, and Immunity - Health (BBI - Health). 55. doi: 10.1016/j.bbih.2026.101278. Full text in Research Archive
• Sargénius, Hanna Lovise; Brandt, Anne Elisabeth; Chevignard, Mathilde; Hypher, Ruth Elizabeth; Andersson, Stein & Finnanger, Torun Gangaune [Show all 9 contributors for this article] (2026). Goal management training and psychoeducation for executive function in adolescents with paediatric-acquired brain injuries: a 5-year follow-up. Brain Injury. ISSN 0269-9052. 40(5), p. 311–320. doi: 10.1080/02699052.2026.2617465. Full text in Research Archive
• Simpson, Dawn B.; Gay, Caryl L.; Berg, Søren; English, Coralie; Ihle-Hansen, Hege Beate & Helland, Gisle Berg [Show all 11 contributors for this article] (2026). Sleep quality, not sleep apnoea, is associated with post-stroke fatigue in acute ischemic stroke: a cross-sectional Norwegian study (NORFAST). Disability and Rehabilitation. ISSN 0963-8288. p. 11–11. doi: 10.1080/09638288.2026.2620503. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Purpose Post-stroke fatigue affects rehabilitation, daily activities, and quality of life. Its relationship with sleep remains unclear. We aimed in the acute stroke phase to (a) describe fatigue and sleep using self-reported and objective sleep measures, (b) describe sleep apnoea and (c) explore the associations between sleep measures and post-stroke fatigue. Material and methods This cross-sectional study examined Norwegian adults within 14 days of first ischaemic stroke. Fatigue was assessed with the Fatigue Severity Scale. Self-reported sleep factors (Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index [PSQI], Epworth Sleepiness Scale) and objective WatchPAT measures (apnoea-hypopnea, sleep time, efficiency, REM/deep sleep) served as exposure variables. Multivariable regression models, adjusted for age, sex, mRS, and depression or anxiety symptoms, were used to examine associations between sleep and fatigue. Results Participants (n = 107, mean age 65 (SD14) years, n = 65(61%) male) had a mean NIHSS score of 2.5 [SD3.3], Fatigue Severity Scale score of 3.11 [SD1.82], and n = 71 (66%) scored as having disturbed sleep (PSQI). Mean total sleep time (n = 81) was 7.04 [SD1.46] hours and 54 (71%) had sleep apnoea. In the final multivariable model, only poor sleep quality (b = 0.45, p = 0.010) was associated with post-stroke fatigue. Conclusions Addressing sleep quality in the acute stroke phase may benefit post-stroke fatigue.

• Sargénius, Hanna Lovise; Hypher, Ruth Elizabeth; Finnanger, Torun Gangaune; Brandt, Anne Elisabeth; Andersson, Stein & Risnes, Kari [Show all 8 contributors for this article] (2026). Long-term fatigue in youth with acquired brain injuries: A 5-year follow-up of the CORE trial. Neuropsychological Rehabilitation. ISSN 0960-2011. p. 19–19. doi: 10.1080/09602011.2025.2609804. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  The objective of this study was to evaluate fatigue trajectories of adolescents with paediatric acquired brain injuries (pABI) following metacognitive strategy training (paediatric Goal Management Training; pGMT) or psychoeducation (paediatric Brain Health Workshop; pBHW) for executive dysfunction in the chronic phase after injury. Five-year follow-up data of the CORE randomized controlled trial including participants aged 10–17 years at baseline, randomized to either pGMT or pBHW is presented. Fatigue was measured at five timepoints using the Paediatric Quality of Life Inventory Multidimensional Fatigue Scale (PedsQL MFS). Linear mixed models and Reliable Change Index (RCI) analyses were utilized to assess outcomes. A significant reduction in total fatigue (F(4,62.820) = 2.81, p = .033) and cognitive fatigue (F(4,59.622) = 4.89, p = .002) was observed based on parent-reported data. However, no significant differences emerged between intervention groups or for the group-by-time interaction. Clinically meaningful improvements in fatigue as determined by the RCIs, were noted in 67.6% of participants per parent-report. In conclusion, both pGMT and pBHW may contribute to sustained reductions in fatigue in young people with pABI, particularly cognitive fatigue. The high rate of clinically meaningful change highlights fatigue as a modifiable symptom that should be a key target in long-term rehabilitation strategies.

• Linnestad, Anne-M.; Skogestad, Ingrid Johansen; Gay, Caryl L.; Borge, Christine Råheim; Indredavik, Bent & Stubberud, Jan [Show all 7 contributors for this article] (2025). Exploring digital health literacy clusters in a Norwegian stroke survivor population—A cross-sectional study (NORFAST). Digital Health. 11, p. 1–11. doi: 10.1177/20552076251380049. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Background Digital health technologies play a pivotal role in stroke prevention and rehabilitation. However, variations in digital health literacy (DHL) among stroke survivors may impede effective use of these tools. Understanding DHL-profiles and their influencing factors is essential for tailoring interventions. Aim This study aimed to identify DHL-profiles among stroke survivors and possible associations with sociodemographic and clinical characteristics. Methods We conducted a cross-sectional study with 177 first-time stroke patients (2021–2022) from the Norwegian stroke registry. DHL was measured using the eHealth Literacy Questionnaire. Cluster analysis identified DHL profiles, and multinomial regression explored associations with sociodemographic and clinical variables. Results Three distinct DHL-profiles emerged: Novices (26%), Cautious users (57%), and Navigators (17%). Novices exhibited notable DHL limitations, cautious users demonstrated moderate proficiency, and navigators displayed a high level of proficiency. Participants aged ≥67 years were five times more likely to be Novices compared to Cautious users. Lower education and cognitive functioning increased novice likelihood, whereas living alone decreased the chance of being a Navigator. Conclusions Diverse DHL-profiles among stroke survivors highlight the need for personalized digital health services. Tailored interventions, developed through co-design and addressing specific DHL challenges, may improve equitable access and enhance usability, ultimately promoting health equity.

• Sargénius, Hanna Lovise; Rø, Torstein Baade; Hypher, Ruth Elizabeth; Brandt, Anne Elisabeth; Andersson, Stein & Finnanger, Torun Gangaune [Show all 8 contributors for this article] (2024). Health-related quality of life in children and adolescents with paediatric acquired brain injury: Secondary data analysis from a randomised controlled trial. Quality of Life Research. ISSN 0962-9343. p. 1–10. doi: 10.1007/s11136-024-03838-2. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Purpose: To explore the characteristic quality of health profiles of children with paediatric acquired brain injury (pABI), and to investigate whether improvement in executive function (EF) following cognitive rehabilitation is associated with improvement in health-related quality of life (HRQOL). Method: A study of secondary endpoints in a blinded, parallel-randomised controlled trial with children (ages 10–17 years) with pABI and executive dysfunction. Data was obtained from 73 children-parent dyads. Explorative analyses were conducted comparing baseline with 8-week post-intervention, and 6-month follow-up data. Outcome measures included the EQ-5D-Y-3L health dimensions and the visual analogue scale (VAS). Results: At baseline and 6-month follow-up, mean (SD) VAS were 76.22 (17.98) and 79.49 (19.82) on the parent-report, and 77.19 (16.63) and 79.09 (17.91) on the self-report, respectively. Comparing children who improved EF to those who did not improve/worsened, no significant improvement was found for the VAS (parent-report) over time (BRIEF-BRI: F = 2.19, p = 0.12, BRIEF-MI: F = 2.23, p = 0.12) for either group. A significant main effect by group was found for BRIEF-MI (F = 4.02, p = 0.049), but no time*group interaction (F = 0.414, p = 0.662). Conclusion: The children and their parents reported only minor problems across EQ-5D-Y-3L dimensions and evaluated overall health as relatively good. Participants with a clinically significant change in the metacognitive aspect of EF had higher HRQOL. Cognitive interventions aiming to ameliorate deficits in EF in pABI may be beneficial to improve HRQOL.

• Brandvold, Malin; Rustøen, Tone; Småstuen, Milada Cvancarova; Stubberud, Jan Egil; Boogaard, Mark van den & Hofsø, Kristin (2024). Inter-rater agreement between patient- and proxy-reported cognitive functioning in intensive care unit patients: A cohort study. Australian Critical Care. ISSN 1036-7314. 37(5), p. 701–709. doi: 10.1016/j.aucc.2024.03.003. Full text in Research Archive
• Fjone, Kristina Struksnes; Stubberud, Jan Egil; Buanes, Eirik Alnes; Småstuen, Milada Cvancarova; Laake, Jon Henrik & Hofsø, Kristin (2024). Objective and subjective cognitive status after intensive care unit treatment for COVID-19. Brain, Behavior, and Immunity - Health (BBI - Health). 38, p. 1–8. doi: 10.1016/j.bbih.2024.100786. Full text in Research Archive
• Rognsvåg, Turid; Bergvad, Ingvild Buset; Furnes, Ove Nord; Indrekvam, Kari; Lerdal, Anners & Lindberg, Maren Falch [Show all 9 contributors for this article] (2024). Exercise therapy, education, and cognitive behavioral therapy alone, or in combination with total knee arthroplasty, in patients with knee osteoarthritis: a randomized feasibility study. Pilot and Feasibility Studies. 10. doi: 10.1186/s40814-024-01470-y. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Background: One in five patients experience chronic pain 1 year after total knee arthroplasty (TKA), highlighting the need for enhanced treatment strategies to improve outcomes. This feasibility trial aimed to optimize the content and delivery of a complex intervention tailored to osteoarthritis (OA) patients at risk of poor outcome after TKA and assess the feasibility of initiating a full-scale multicenter randomized controlled trial (RCT). Methods: Patients scheduled for TKA were included between August 2019 and June 2020 and block-randomized into one of three groups: (a) 12-week exercise therapy and education (ExE) and 10-module internet-delivered cognitive behavioral therapy (iCBT), (b) TKA followed by ExE and iCBT and (c) TKA and standard postoperative care. Outcomes were (i) recruitment and retention rate, (ii) compliance to the intervention and follow-up, (iii) crossover, and (iv) adverse events, reported by descriptive statistics. Results: Fifteen patients were included in the study. Only 1 out of 146 patients screened for eligibility was included during the first 4 months. During the next 3 months, 117 patients were not included since they lived too far from the hospital. To increase the recruitment rate, we made three amendments to the inclusion criteria; (1) at-risk screening of poor TKA outcome was removed as an eligibility criterion, (2) patients across the country could be included in the study and (3) physiotherapists without specific certification were included, receiving thorough information and support. No patients withdrew from the study or crossed over to surgery during the first year. Nine out of 10 patients completed the ExE program and six out of 10 completed the iCBT program. Fourteen out of 15 patients completed the 1-year follow-up. One minor adverse event was registered. Conclusions: Except for recruitment and compliance to iCBT, feasibility was demonstrated. The initial recruitment process was challenging, and necessary changes were made to increase the recruitment rate. The findings informed how a definitive RCT should be undertaken to test the effectiveness of the complex intervention.

• Egset, Kaja Solland; Stubberud, Jan Egil; Ruud, Ellen; Hjort, Magnus Aasved; Eilertsen, Mary-Elizabeth & Sund, Anne Mari [Show all 9 contributors for this article] (2024). Neurocognitive outcome and associated factors in long-term, adult survivors of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia, treated without cranial radiation therapy. Journal of the International Neuropsychological Society. ISSN 1355-6177. 30(6), p. 523–532. doi: 10.1017/S1355617724000080. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Objective: There is limited research on neurocognitive outcome and associated risk factors in long-term, adult survivors of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), without treatment of cranial radiation therapy. Moreover, the impact of fatigue severity and pain interference on neurocognition has received little attention. In this cross-sectional study, we examined neurocognitive outcome and associated factors in this population. Method: Intellectual abilities, verbal learning/memory, processing speed, attention, and executive functions were compared to normative means/medians with one sample t tests or Wilcoxon signed-rank tests. Associations with risk factors, fatigue severity, and pain interference were analyzed with linear regressions. Results: Long-term, adult survivors of childhood ALL (N = 53, 51% females, mean age = 24.4 years, SD = 4.4, mean = 14.7 years post-diagnosis, SD = 3.4) demonstrated above average intellectual abilities, but performed below average in attention, inhibition, processing speed, and shifting (p < 0.001). Executive functioning complaints were significantly higher than normative means, and positively associated with fatigue (p < 0.001). There was no interaction between sex and fatigue and no neurocognitive impairments were associated with pain interference, risk group, age at diagnosis, or sex. Conclusions: Long-term, adult survivors of ALL treated without cranial radiation therapy, demonstrate domain-specific performance-based neurocognitive impairments. However, continued research on the neurocognitive outcome in this population as they age will be important in the coming years. Executive functioning complaints were frequently in the clinical range, and often accompanied by fatigue. This suggests a need for cognitive rehabilitation programs.

• Egset, Kaja Solland; Weider, Siri; Hjemdal, Odin; Ruud, Ellen; Hjort, Magnus Aasved & Eilertsen, Mary-Elizabeth [Show all 9 contributors for this article] (2024). Exploring the Discrepancy Between Subjective and Objective Measures of Executive Functions in Young Adult Survivors of Childhood Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. Journal of Adolescent and Young Adult Oncology. ISSN 2156-5333. 0, p. 1–7. doi: 10.1089/jayao.2024.0105. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Purpose: Childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is associated with executive dysfunction in long-term survivorship. This is evidenced by subjective and objective measures of executive functions (EFs). However, the two measures do not always align, and the EF discrepancy in this population is understudied. This cross-sectional study aimed to examine the association between global measures of subjective and objective EF in young adult (YA) survivors of childhood ALL. Second, we aimed to explore how psychological distress, fatigue, self-efficacy, and estimated IQ relate to the discrepancy between these measures. Methods: A total of 53 subjects (age 18–34) participated in a clinical trial baseline assessment (clinicaltrials.gov NCT04541056). The Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function for Adults assessed subjective EFs. Results from six neurocognitive tests were combined to represent objective EFs. Discrepancy scores were calculated by subtracting the objective EF composite score from the subjective EF score. Spearman’s correlations and simple and multiple linear regression analyses were performed to explore associations and predictors for the global EF discrepancy. Results: Subjective and objective measures of EF were moderately correlated (rs = 0.407). The regression analyses showed that psychological distress (R2 = 0.44), fatigue (R2 = 0.29), and self-efficacy (R2 = 0.24) significantly predicted the global EF discrepancy (p < .001). Only psychological distress explained unique variation (B = −0.46). Conclusion: Neurocognitive tests and self-reports offer valuable insights into EF assessment for YA survivors. Psychological distress emerged as the most central contributor to the overall EF discrepancy. Consequently, screening for anxiety and depression alongside subjective EF complaints will be of significance.

• Egset, Kaja Solland; Røkke, Magnhild Eitrem; Reinfjell, Trude; Stubberud, Jan Egil & Weider, Siri (2024). Cognitive and behavioural rehabilitation interventions for survivors of childhood cancer with neurocognitive sequelae: A systematic review. Neuropsychological Rehabilitation. ISSN 0960-2011. 35(1), p. 131–158. doi: 10.1080/09602011.2024.2314880. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  There is considerable interest in cognitive and behavioural interventions to manage and improve neurocognitive (dys)functions in childhood cancer survivors and the literature is rapidly growing. This systematic review aimed to examine the literature of such interventions and their impact on executive functions (EFs) and attention. A search of relevant manuscripts was performed in PubMed, PsycINFO, and Web of Science in March 2023 in accordance with the PRISMA statement. After screening 3737 records, 17 unique studies published between 2002 and 2022 were charted and summarized. Participants (N = 718) were mostly children (M = 12.2 years), who were long-term survivors (M = 5.0 years post treatment) of brain or CNS tumours (48%). Identified interventions included computerized cognitive training, physical activity, and cognitive interventions with compensatory strategy training. The highest quality RCT studies included computerized training (i.e., Cogmed), neurofeedback, and exergaming. Evidence suggests that Cogmed may improve the performance of certain working memory tasks (near transfer) and possibly improve visual attention tasks for individuals with working memory impairments. However, the evidence did not support far transfer of effects to real life. No significant effects (near or far-transfer) were found following neurofeedback and exergaming interventions. Finally, a knowledge gap was identified for interventions directed at long-term survivors in adulthood.

• Sargénius, Hanna Lovise; Hypher, Ruth Elizabeth; Finnanger, Torun Gangaune; Brandt, Anne Elisabeth; Andersson, Stein & Risnes, Kari [Show all 8 contributors for this article] (2024). Goal management training for improving fatigue in children and adolescents with acquired brain injuries: A 2-year follow-up of a randomised controlled trial. Neuropsychological Rehabilitation. ISSN 0960-2011. p. 1–21. doi: 10.1080/09602011.2024.2353395. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  To explore the long-term effectiveness of a paediatric adaptation of Goal Management Training (pGMT), relative to a psychoeducative program (pBHW), in reducing fatigue after pABI 2 years post-intervention. Thirty-eight youths and their parents completed the Paediatric Quality of Life – Multidimensional Fatigue Scale. Primary outcome measures were Total Fatigue Score, General fatigue, Cognitive fatigue, and Sleep/rest fatigue (parent-report). No significant differences in fatigue symptoms by the parental report was observed between the intervention groups at the 2-year follow-up (total score: F = .16, p = .69; general fatigue: F = .36, p = .55; sleep/rest: F = .48, p = .49; and cognitive fatigue: F = .09, p = .76), nor any time*group interactions (total score: F = .25, p = .86; general fatigue: F = .39, p = .76; sleep/rest: F = .20, p = .89; and cognitive fatigue: F = .08, p = .97). In total, 45% of the participants in the pGMT group and 25% in the pBHW group demonstrated a reliable positive clinical change. The significant improvements in fatigue symptoms that were demonstrated 6 months post-intervention could not be confirmed in this 2-year follow-up study. However, a continued positive tendency on most dimensions of fatigue for the participants in the pGMT group could be observed, suggesting that cognitive rehabilitation may help reduce fatigue.

• Ingebretsen, Silje Merethe Hansen; Stubberud, Jan Egil & Kirmess, Melanie (2024). Family members’ and friends’ reports after standard and intensive group treatment for social communication difficulties following acquired brain injury–a mixed method approach. Brain Injury. ISSN 0269-9052. p. 1–12. doi: 10.1080/02699052.2024.2311345. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Objective To examine family members/friends’ perception of change following standard and intensive group interactive structured treatment (GIST) for persons with social communication difficulties (SCDs). Methods A parallel mixed methods design combining data from questionnaires, the Goal Attainment Scale, and interviews. Participants Forty-nine adult (>18 years) family members/friends (69.4% female) of persons with SCDs and acquired brain injury (ABI) (cohabitating partner, 53.1%; other relatives, 30.6%; friends, 16.3%). Intervention Standard GIST consisted of 12 weekly outpatient sessions (2.5 h). Intensive GIST consisted of 4 weeks of inpatient rehabilitation (2 × 3 days/week, 2 × 4 days/week). Both treatments included 3- and 6-month follow-ups. Main outcome measures Quantitative measures (n = 49) included the following informant reports: Latrobe Communication Questionnaire (LCQ), Social Communication Skills Questionnaire-Adapted (SCSQ-A), Behavior Rating Inventory for Executive Functions-Adult version (BRIEF-A), and Goal Attainment Scale. The qualitative measure (n=9) was an interview performed at 6-month follow-up. Results Converging results were found, suggesting a perceived positive change over time for both standard and intensive GIST, with no substantial differences reported between the treatments. Conclusions Family members/friends reported improved social communication skills of the persons with SCDs following standard and intensive GIST. However, the integration of data showed the complexity of assessing SCDs and the need for further investigation.

• Areklett, Elisabeth Wang; Andersson, Stein; Fagereng, Elisabeth; Bruheim, Kjersti; Stubberud, Jan Egil & Lindemann, Kristina Yvonne Kathe (2024). Cognitive impairment in cervical cancer survivors—Exploring the discrepancy between subjective and objective assessment. Psycho-Oncology. ISSN 1057-9249. 33(2). doi: 10.1002/pon.6300. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Objective Cancer-related cognitive impairment has severe implications for the quality of life and societal participation of cervical cancer survivors (CCS). However, there is no research on the association between subjective and objective cognitive impairment (CI) in cervical cancer. This cross-sectional study aimed to examine the frequency and severity of objective CI in CCS reporting significant subjective CI and explore the discrepancy between subjective and objective CI. Methods Sixty-five CCS reporting significant subjective CI, defined as 1.5 SD below the normative mean, underwent neuropsychological (NP) assessment covering attention, verbal memory, processing speed, verbal fluency, and executive functions. CCS were compared to healthy age-matched controls (n = 74). A subjective versus objective discrepancy score was calculated based on the standardized scores within each group. Results The CCS group performed significantly poorer across all NP tests compared to healthy controls (all p-values <0.001) and 81.5% had scores below cut-off as defined by the International Cognition and Cancer Task Force. However, compared to published normative data, most CCS performed within the clinically normal range. Processing speed and verbal memory were the most affected cognitive domains. By calculating a discrepancy score, both groups on average displayed a quite accurate concordance between subjective and objective cognitive functioning. Conclusion Although CI is evident in CCS, our results confirm that objective and subjective CI represent different constructs and highlight the limitations of normative data. Differentiating subjective and objective CI is important when tailoring effective interventions in the survivorship care of CCS.

• Areklett, Elisabeth Wang; Hagen, Bjørn Ole Ingulfsvann; Stubberud, Jan Egil; Fagereng, Elisabeth; Andersson, Stein & Lindemann, Kristina Yvonne Kathe (2024). Digital goal management training for cognitive impairment in cervical cancer survivors—a randomized comparison study. Journal of cancer survivorship. ISSN 1932-2259. doi: 10.1007/s11764-024-01701-4. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Purpose Cognitive impairment (CI) is a common late effect after cancer treatment, for which effective interventions are lacking. Goal management training (GMT) is a validated cognitive training protocol reported to improve cognition, including executive functioning. The purpose of this study was to examine the feasibility and acceptability of digital GMT in cervical cancer survivors (CCS) experiencing CI and compare it to computerized cognitive training (CCT). Methods Thirty-five CCS with significant subjective CI were randomized in a 1:1 ratio between digital GMT (N = 18) and CCT (N = 17). The primary endpoint was attendance, and participants attending ≥ 80% of the sessions were categorized as completers. Acceptability was evaluated post-intervention using the Client Satisfaction Questionnaire-8 (CSQ-8). Secondary outcomes included self-reported and performance-based cognitive functioning. Results The completion rate in both groups was 88%. Participants in both groups reported high levels of satisfaction (CSQ-8; GMT: M = 25.2, SD 3.7, range 18–31, and CCT: M = 24.6, SD 3.1, range 19–30). Exploratory analyses showed improvements in both groups over time in attention and memory as well as self-reported cognitive functioning. Conclusion Digital GMT is feasible with a high level of compliance and satisfaction in CCS. Preliminary efficacy data shows promising cognitive improvement over time, and the results are comparable to CCT and warrant further investigation in a larger-scale trial. Implications for Cancer Survivors If deemed effective in a larger study, digital cognitive training, such as GMT, is a low-cost, low-staff intensive intervention that is easily implemented and available to cancer survivors experiencing CI.

• Coldevin, Marit Melnæs; Brænden, Astrid Irene; Zeiner, Pål; Øyen, Anne-Siri; Melinder, Annika Maria Désirée & Stubberud, Jan Egil (2024). Disruptive mood dysregulation disorder, parental stress, and attachment styles. Frontiers in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. 3. doi: 10.3389/frcha.2024.1430850. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Disruptive mood dysregulation disorder (DMDD) is a relatively new diagnostic entity concerning children with chronic irritability and severe anger outbursts. Currently, there is limited knowledge about the parental factors associated with the disorder. The aim of this study was to compare stress levels and attachment styles in parents of children with DMDD with those of parents of children with other diagnoses. Our sample consisted of 218 children (6–12 years, Mage = 9.68 years) referred to child mental health outpatient clinics. Clinicians used a standardized semi-structured diagnostic interview to identify diagnoses. Parental stress levels and attachment styles were assessed using parent reports. We found that parents of children with DMDD experience significantly higher levels of parenting stress related to factors in the child than parents of children with other diagnoses. Furthermore, parents of children with DMDD show a higher association with insecure adult attachment styles than parents of children without DMDD. Finally, an adult preoccupied-ambivalent attachment style explains the variability in parental stress in the DMDD group to a large degree. We discuss how parental stress and an insecure attachment style can be associated with negative parenting practices. An implication from this study could be that treatment results might be improved by involving parents more in treatment programs for children with DMDD.

• Coldevin, Marit Melnæs; Daasvand, Maia Høvo; Kirchhofer, Solveig Melanie; Løken, Per Martin; Jenssen, Synne Solnørdal & Stubberud, Jan Egil (2024). Dialektisk atferdsterapi for barn: En pilotstudie av ferdighetstreningsgrupper for foreldre. Tidsskrift for Norsk psykologforening (Psykologtidsskriftet). ISSN 0332-6470. doi: 10.52734/OMMB8005. Full text in Research Archive
• Buer, Sofie; Hagen, Bjørn Ole Ingulfsvann; Søraas, Arne Vasli Lund; White, Richard Aubrey; Bø, Ragnhild & Ellingjord-Dale, Merete [Show all 12 contributors for this article] (2024). Executive deficits after SARS-CoV-2 infection: A cross-sectional population study. Brain, Behavior, and Immunity - Health (BBI - Health). 41, p. 1–8. doi: 10.1016/j.bbih.2024.100857. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Importance Despite the major implications of executive deficits in day-to-day functioning, few studies have investigated this in post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection using standardized measures that differentiate between aspects of executive function. Objective Examine whether SARS-CoV-2 infection is associated with deficits in executive functions and if so, investigate the duration of this association. Design, Setting, and Participants The present research has a cross-sectional design and uses data from the Norwegian Covid-19 Cohort study. The current cohort (n = 8102) completed the Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function- Adult Version (BRIEF-A) electronically between April 2021 and September 2021. During the assessment, 4183 of the included participants had a prior positive polymerase chain reaction test (PCR) for SARS-CoV-2 and 3919 were untested or had a confirmed negative PCR test. Exposure Laboratory-confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection. Main outcomes and measures Executive functions were measured using the BRIEF-A, a self-report questionnaire comprising 75 items within nine theoretically and empirically distinct clinical scales. All participants self-reported on demographical variables and comorbidity. Information on sex and age was derived from the personal identification number, and vaccination status was obtained from the Norwegian Immunization Registry (SYSVAK). Results Participants with a positive SARS-CoV-2 status reported executive deficits in everyday life above the clinical threshold (T-score ≥65) more often than non-infected controls (383 vs. 225). Specifically, the SARS-CoV-2 positive status group indicated significantly more deficits related to metacognition, with the greatest difference demonstrated for working memory. This difference remained when adjusting for various demographic factors and comorbidities, with significantly greater odds of reporting above the clinical threshold following SARS-CoV-2 infection, as observed on the global executive composite score 6–12 months after infection (OR 1.97; 95% CI 1.51 to 2.55). Conclusions Our study confirms more perceived executive deficits following SARS-CoV-2 infection compared to non-infected controls, with metacognitive aspects being the most affected. These findings shed light on the potential functional difficulties that individuals may encounter during the post-acute phase of SARS-CoV-2 infection and may guide further development of targeted interventions addressing metacognitive domains of executive functioning.

• Øie, Marie Bjørntvedt; Haugen, Ingvild; Stubberud, Jan Egil & Øie, Merete Glenne (2024). Effects of Goal Management Training on self-efficacy, self-esteem, and quality of life for persons with schizophrenia spectrum disorders. Frontiers in Psychology. 15, p. 1–12. doi: 10.3389/fpsyg.2024.1320986. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Persons with schizophrenia often show executive dysfunction assessed with both subjective (self-report) and objective (neuropsychological tests) measures. In a recent randomized controlled trial (RCT), subjective executive functioning in everyday life was improved following Goal Management Training (GMT). The aim of the current study is to investigate the potential of GMT to improve secondary well-being outcomes from that RCT, including self-esteem, self-efficacy, and quality of life in persons with schizophrenia spectrum disorders. Since well-being is frequently lower in persons with schizophrenia compared to healthy individuals, further knowledge about well-being as an outcome after cognitive remediation may have implications for clinical treatment. Sixty-five participants were randomly assigned to GMT (n = 31) or a waiting list control condition (n = 34). Assessments were conducted at baseline (T1), immediately after the intervention (T2-5 weeks), and at six-month follow-up (T3). Measures included the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale, the Perceived Quality of Life Scale, and the General Self-Efficacy Scale. Results were analyzed using a linear mixed model analysis for repeated measures. There were no significant effects of GMT on self-esteem or quality of life. Only the GMT group showed a significant increase in self-efficacy that was most evident at six months follow-up, F(1, 34) = 10.71, p = 0.002, d = 0.71. Improved self-efficacy was found to correlate significantly with a reduction in perceived executive dysfunction in an exploratory post hoc analysis. Our findings demonstrate the potential of GMT in improving self-efficacy in schizophrenia Clinical trial registration:https://clinicaltrials.gov, NCT03048695.

• Yggeseth, Tonje; Kirmess, Melanie; Stubberud, Jan Egil & Ingebretsen, Silje Merethe Hansen (2023). Kognitive kommunikasjonsvansker etter ervervet hjerneskade. Evaluering og normering av kartleggingsverktøyet La Trobe Communication Questionnaire (LCQ) – Norsk versjon. Norsk tidsskrift for logopedi. ISSN 0332-7256. 69(3), p. 8–21. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  En stor andel personer med ervervet hjerneskade opplever endringer i kommunikasjon og kognitive ferdigheter. Til tross for dette, finnes det få evidensbaserte kartleggingsverktøy for personer med kognitive kommunikasjonsvansker i Norge. Denne artikkelen vil derfor presentere evalueringen og normeringen av den norske versjonen av kartleggingsverktøyet La Trobe Communication Questionnaire (LCQ).

• Ingebretsen, Silje Merethe Hansen; Kirmess, Melanie; Småstuen, Milada Cvancarova; Hawley, Lenore; Newman, Jody & Stubberud, Jan Egil (2023). Rehabilitation of Social Communication Skills in Patients With Acquired Brain Injury With Intensive and Standard Group Interactive Structured Treatment: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. ISSN 0003-9993. 104(7), p. 1016–1025. doi: 10.1016/j.apmr.2023.02.023. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Objective: To determine the efficacy of group interactive structured treatment (standard GIST) for improving social communication difficulties in a wider acquired brain injury (ABI) population compared to a waitlist control (WL). Secondary objectives were to (a) explore GIST across delivery formats by comparing the results to an intensive inpatient version of GIST (intensive GIST) and (b) compare the within-subject results for WL and intensive GIST. Design: Randomized controlled trial with WL and repeated measures (pre- and posttraining, 3- and 6-month follow-ups). Setting: Community and rehabilitation hospital. Participants: Forty-nine persons (27-74 years) with ABI and social communication difficulties (26.5% traumatic brain injury, 44.9% stroke, 28.6% other), minimum 12 months postinjury. Intervention: Standard GIST (n=24) consisted of 12 weekly outpatient interactive group sessions (2.5 hours/session) and follow-up. Intensive GIST (n=18) consisted of 4 weeks with daily 4-hour inpatient group sessions (2 £ 3 d/wk, 2 £ 4 d/wk) and follow-up. Main Outcome Measures: La Trobe Questionnaire, a self-report questionnaire measuring social communication. Secondary measures: Social Communication Skills Questionnaire−Adapted, Goal Attainment Scale, Mind in the Eyes test, and questionnaires addressing mental and cognitive health, self-efficacy, and quality of life. Results: When comparing the standard GIST and WL results, a trend of improvement was found for the main outcome, La Trobe Questionnaire, and a statistically significant improvement was found for the secondary outcome Social Communication Skills Questionnaire−Adapted. Comparing standard GIST and intensive GIST, improvement in social communication skills after both treatments was detected and maintained at 6-month follow-up. No statistically significant difference was found between groups. Goal attainment was achieved and maintained during follow-up for both standard and intensive GIST.

• Brænden, Astrid; Coldevin, Marit Melnæs; Zeiner, Pål; Stubberud, Jan Egil & Melinder, Annika Maria Désirée (2023). Executive function in children with disruptive mood dysregulation disorder compared to attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder and oppositional defiant disorder, and in children with different irritability levels. European Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. ISSN 1018-8827. 33(1), p. 115–125. doi: 10.1007/s00787-023-02143-6. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Abstract Addressing current challenges in research on disruptive mood dysregulation disorder (DMDD), this study aims to compare executive function in children with DMDD, children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and children with oppositional defiant disorder (ODD). We also explore associations between irritability, a key DMDD characteristic, and executive function in a clinical sample regardless of diagnosis. Our sample include children (6–12 years) referred to child psychiatric clinics. Measures of daily-life (parent-reported questionnaire) and performance-based (neuropsychological tasks) executive function were applied. Identifying diagnoses, clinicians administered a standardized semi-structured diagnostic interview with parents. Irritability was assessed by parent-report. First, we compared executive function in DMDD (without ADHD/ODD), ADHD (without DMDD/ODD), ODD (without DMDD/ADHD) and DMDD + ADHD (without ODD). Second, we analyzed associations between executive function and irritability using the total sample. In daily life, children with DMDD showed clinically elevated and significantly worse emotion control scores compared to children with ADHD, and clinically elevated scores on cognitive flexibility compared to norm scores. Children with DMDD had significantly less working memory problems than those with ADHD. No differences were found between DMDD and ODD. Increased irritability was positively associated with emotional dyscontrol and cognitive inflexibility. For performance-based executive function, no diagnostic differences or associations with irritability were observed. We discuss how, in daily life, children with high irritability-levels get overwhelmed by feelings without accompanying regulatory capacities.

• Fjone, Kristina Struksnes; Buanes, Eirik Alnes; Småstuen, Milada Cvancarova; Laake, Jon Henrik; Stubberud, Jan Egil & Hofsø, Kristin (2023). Post-traumatic stress symptoms six months after ICU admission with COVID-19: Prospective observational study. Journal of Clinical Nursing (JCN). ISSN 0962-1067. 33(1), p. 103–114. doi: 10.1111/jocn.16665. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Aims and Objectives: The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of post- traumatic stress symptoms, and to identify possible predictive factors in Norwegian intensive care unit survivors, 6 months after admission to the intensive care unit with COVID- 19. Background: The SARS CoV-2 virus causing COVID-19 has spread worldwide since it was declared a pandemic in March 2020. The most severely ill patients have been treated in the intensive care due to acute respiratory failure and also acute respira- tory distress syndrome. It is well documented that these severe conditions can lead to complex and long-lasting symptoms, such as psychological distress, and was, there- fore, investigated for the specific COVID-19 population. Design: Prospective observational study. Methods: Clinical data and patient reported outcome measures were collected by the Norwegian Intensive Care and Pandemic Registry and by the study group 6 months after admission to an intensive care unit. Results: Among 222 COVID-19 patients admitted to Norwegian intensive care units between 10 March and 6 July 2020, 175 survived. The study sample consisted of 131 patients who responded to at least one patient reported outcome measure at 6 months following admission. The primary outcome was self-reported post-traumatic stress symptoms, using the Impact of Event Scale-6 (n = 89). Of those, 22.5% reported post-traumatic stress symptoms 6 months after admission. Female gender, younger age and having a high respiratory rate at admission were statistically significant pre- dictive factors for reporting post-traumatic stress symptoms. Conclusions: The result is in accordance with previously published research with com- parable populations, suggesting that for many COVID-19 survivors psychological dis- tress is a part of the post-acute sequelae. Results from the present study should be replicated in larger datasets. Relevance to Clinical Practice: This project provides important insight to post-acute sequelae after COVID-19 that patients may experience after critical illness.

• Brænden, Astrid; Coldevin, Marit Melnæs; Zeiner, Pål; Stubberud, Jan Egil & Melinder, Annika Maria Désirée (2023). Neuropsychological mechanisms of social difficulties in disruptive mood dysregulation disorder versus oppositional defiant disorder. Child Neuropsychology: A Journal of Normal and Abnormal Development in Childhood and Adolescence. ISSN 0929-7049. doi: 10.1080/09297049.2023.2205632. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Children with Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder (DMDD) or Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) are characterized by irritability and social difficulties. However, the mechanisms underlying these disorders could be different. This study explores differences in social cognition and executive function (EF) across DMDD and ODD and the influence of these factors and their interaction on social problems in both groups. Children with DMDD (n = 53, Mage = 9.3) or ODD (n = 39, Mage = 9.6) completed neuropsychological tasks measuring social cognition (Theory of Mind and Face-Emotion Recognition) and EF (cognitive flexibility, inhibition, and working memory). Parents reported social problems. More than one-third of the children with DMDD and almost two-thirds of those with ODD showed clear difficulties with Theory of Mind. Most children with DMDD (51–64%) or ODD (67–83%) showed difficulties with EF. In children with DMDD, worse EF (β = –.36) was associated with more social problems, whereas in children with ODD, better EF (β = .44) was associated with more social problems. In those with ODD, but not in those with DMDD, the interaction between social cognition and EF contributed to the explained variance of social problems (β = –1.97). Based on the observed interaction pattern, enhanced EF may lead to increased social problems among children with ODD who also exhibit social cognition difficulties. This study suggests the existence of distinct neuropsychological mechanisms underlying the social issues observed in children with DMDD versus those with ODD.

• Coldevin, Marit Melnæs; Brænden, Astrid; Zeiner, Pål; Øyen, Anne-Siri; Melinder, Annika Maria Désirée & Stubberud, Jan Egil (2023). Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder in a Norwegian Clinical Child Population. Clinical Child Psychology and Psychiatry. ISSN 1359-1045. doi: 10.1177/13591045231176928. Full text in Research Archive
• Brænden, Astrid Irene; Lebena, Andrea; Faresjö, Åshild; Theodorsson, Elvar; Coldevin, Marit Melnæs & Stubberud, Jan Egil [Show all 8 contributors for this article] (2023). Excessive hair cortisol concentration as an indicator of psychological disorders in children. Psychoneuroendocrinology. ISSN 0306-4530. 157. doi: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2023.106363. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Cortisol in hair is a new biomarker assessing long-term hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis activity, which is related to emotion regulation. We compare hair cortisol concentrations (HCC), in clinically referred children with disruptive mood dysregulation disorder (DMDD) (n = 19), children with other types of psychological disorders (n = 48), and healthy subjects (n = 36). We also investigate the association between HCC and irritability, age, and sex. Our results show that children with DMDD or other types of psychological disorders have higher HCC than healthy subjects, p < .001, ηp2 = .39. No difference between children with DMDD and those with other types of psychological disorders was found, p = .91, nor an association between HCC and irritability in the clinical sample, p = .32. We found a significant negative correlation between HCC and age in those with DMDD, r = −0.54, p < .05, but not in the normative sample, r = −0.20, p = .25. No differences in HCC between girls and boys were found in the normative sample, p = .49. Children in need of psychological treatment, including those with DMDD, seem to have dysregulated HPA-axis activity over time. Excessive accumulated cortisol concentrations in hair could be an indicator of a psychological disorder in children.

• Dyresen, Agnete; Stubberud, Jan Egil; Fjermestad, Krister Westlye; Haugen, Ingvild & Øie, Merete Glenne (2023). Executive control training for adolescents with ADHD: Study protocol for a randomized controlled trial. Contemporary Clinical Trials. ISSN 1551-7144. 136. doi: 10.1016/j.cct.2023.107404. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Background: Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is one of the most prevalent neurodevelopmental conditions diagnosed during childhood and adolescence. In addition to the commonly observed symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity, individuals with ADHD often experience impairments in executive functions (EFs). Goal management training (GMT) is a cognitive remediation intervention targeting EFs, with empirical support from studies with adult populations, including ADHD. The objective of the upcoming trial is to assess the effectiveness of GMT for adolescents with ADHD. Methods: This pre-registered protocol outlines a multi-centre randomised controlled trial (RCT) comparing GMT to treatment as usual (TAU) to improve EFs. We aim to recruit 120 participants, aged 12 to 18 years, recently diagnosed with ADHD. Participants will be randomly allocated to the group-based GMT intervention in addition to TAU, or the TAU condition, through block randomisation with site stratification. GMT will be delivered in groups of four to six participants, with weekly two-hour sessions for seven weeks, complemented by separate parent and teacher sessions. TAU is standard community mental health treatment. The primary outcome measure will be parent-reported EF assessed with the Behaviour Rating Inventory of Executive Function 2 (BRIEF-2). Secondary outcomes will include ADHD symptom measures, social functioning, quality of life, and neuropsychological tests (attention span, inhibition, working memory, and visuo-motor speed). The outcome assessments will be conducted at baseline, 12 weeks, 12 months, and 24 months post-treatment. Conclusion: The study findings will contribute to determine the effectiveness of a non-pharmacological ADHD treatment, including outcome trajectories up to 24 months post-treatment.

• Brandt, Anne Elisabeth; Rø, Torstein Baade; Finnanger, Torun Gangaune; Hypher, Ruth Elizabeth; Lien, Espen August & Lund, Bendik [Show all 10 contributors for this article] (2023). Intelligence and executive function are associated with age at insult, time post-insult, and disability following chronic pediatric acquired brain injury. Frontiers in Neurology. 14. doi: 10.3389/fneur.2023.1192623. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Background: Pediatric acquired brain injury (pABI) profoundly affects cognitive functions, encompassing IQ and executive functions (EFs). Particularly, young age at insult may lead to persistent and debilitating deficits, affecting daily-life functioning negatively. This study delves into the intricate interplay of age at insult, time post-insult, and their associations with IQ and EFs during chronic (>1 year) pABI. Additionally, we investigate cognitive performance across different levels of global function, recognizing the multifaceted nature of developmental factors influencing outcomes. Methods: Drawing upon insult data and baseline information analyzing secondary outcomes from a multicenter RCT, including comprehensive medical and neuropsychological assessments of participants aged 10 to 17 years with pABI and parent-reported executive dysfunctions. The study examined associations between age at insult (early, EI; ≤7y vs. late, LI; > 7y) and time post-insult with IQ and EFs (updating, shifting, inhibition, and executive attention). Additionally, utilizing the Pediatric Glasgow Outcome Scale-Extended, we explored cognitive performance across levels of global functioning. Results: Seventy-six participants, median 8 years at insult and 5 years post-insult, predominantly exhibiting moderate disability (n = 38), were included. Notably, participants with LI demonstrated superior IQ, executive attention, and shifting compared to EI, [adjusted mean differences with 95% Confidence Intervals (CIs); 7.9 (1.4, 14.4), 2.48 (0.71, 4.24) and 1.73 (0.03, 3.43), respectively]. Conversely, extended post-insult duration was associated with diminished performances, evident in mean differences with 95% CIs for IQ, updating, shifting, and executive attention compared to 1–2 years post-insult [−11.1 (−20.4, −1.7), −8.4 (−16.7, −0.1), −2.6 (−4.4, −0.7), −2.9 (−4.5, −1.2), −3.8 (−6.4, −1.3), −2.6 (−5.0, −0.3), and −3.2 (−5.7, −0.8)]. Global function exhibited a robust relationship with IQ and EFs. Conclusion: Early insults and prolonged post-insult durations impose lasting tribulations in chronic pABI. While confirmation through larger studies is needed, these findings carry clinical implications, underscoring the importance of vigilance regarding early insults. Moreover, they dispel the notion that children fully recover from pABI; instead, they advocate equitable rehabilitation offerings for pABI, tailored to address cognitive functions, recognizing their pivotal role in achieving independence and participation in society. Incorporating disability screening in long-term follow-up assessments may prove beneficial.

• Hanssen, Kjersti Træland; Brevik, Erlend Joramo; Hagen, Milada & Stubberud, Jan Egil (2023). Improvement of anxiety in ADHD following goal-focused cognitive remediation: a randomized controlled trial. Frontiers in Psychology. 14. doi: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1212502. Full text in Research Archive
• Sargénius, Hanna Lovise; Andersson, Stein; Haugen, Ingvild; Hypher, Ruth Elizabeth; Brandt, Anne Elisabeth & Finnanger, Torun Gangaune [Show all 9 contributors for this article] (2023). Cognitive rehabilitation in paediatric acquired brain injury—A 2-year follow-up of a randomised controlled trial. Frontiers in Neurology. 14. doi: 10.3389/fneur.2023.1173480. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Background: Goal management training (GMT), a metacognitive rehabilitation method that has been demonstrated to improve executive function (EF) in adults with acquired brain injury (ABI), could potentially be effective for children in the chronic phase of ABI. In a previously published randomised controlled trial (RCT), the efficacy of a paediatric adaptation of GMT (pGMT) compared to a psychoeducative control intervention (paediatric Brain Health Workshop, pBHW) was investigated. Comparable improvements in EF in both groups were found at 6-month follow-up. However, a specific effect of pGMT could not be conclusively proven. The present study reports 2-year follow-up data (T4; T1: baseline, T2: post-intervention, T3: 6-month follow-up, and T4: 2-year follow-up) from this original RCT. Methods: A total of 38 children and adolescents and also their parents completed questionnaires tapping into daily life EF. Explorative analyses were conducted comparing the 2-year follow-up data (T4) with the baseline (T1) and 6-month follow-up data (T3) for T4-participants in the two intervention groups (pGMT; n = 21, pBHW; n = 17), and we also assessed T4-participants vs. non-responders (n = 38) in the RCT. Primary outcome measures were the Behavioural Regulation Index (BRI) and the Metacognition Index (MI) derived from the Behaviour Rating Inventory of Executive Function (BRIEF) parent report. Results: No difference between intervention groups was found (BRI, F = 2.25, p = 0.143, MI, F = 1.6, p = 0.213), and no time*group interaction (BRI, F = 0.07, p = 0.976, MI, F = 0.137, p = 0.937) could be seen at the 2-year follow-up. Nevertheless, both pGMT and the pBHW groups improved daily EF as measured by parental reports over time from the baseline to T4 (p = 0.034). T4 participants and non-responders shared similar baseline characteristics. Conclusion: Our results extend the findings from the 6-month follow-up previously published. Both pGMT and pBHW groups sustained their improvements in daily life EFs from the baseline, but additional effectiveness of pGMT relative to pBHW was not found.

• Melinder, Annika Maria Désirée; Brænden, Astrid Irene; Lebena, Andrea; Faresjø, Åshild Olsen; Theodorson, Elvar & Coldevin, Marit Melnæs [Show all 8 contributors for this article] (2023). The psychobiology of child and parental stress and the subjective perception of parental stress in a clinical sample of children. Frontiers in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. 2, p. 1–11. doi: 10.3389/frcha.2023.1173317. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Parental stress may influence the assimilation of treatment strategies and affect a child's recovery trajectory. Thus, assessing parental stress is crucial for children requiring psychiatric care. The Parenting Stress Index (PSI) is widely utilized to gauge perceived parental stress. However, since the PSI does not quantify cortisol concentration (i.e., a biological marker for stress), it is vital to ascertain the alignment between these indicators. Moreover, understanding the correlation in cortisol concentrations between parents and children in clinical contexts can refine assessment and diagnostic methodologies. In an outpatient sample [mean age ( M age ) = 9.68 years], we examined the correlation between hair cortisol concentration (HCC) in 60 pairs of parents and children, analyzed the relationship between PSI scores and parent HCC ( n  = 65), and used a regression model to probe the influence of child HCC and PSI scores on parent HCC ( n  = 63). The results showed a significant relationship between parent and child HCC ( p  &amp;lt; 0.001). The “Distraction and Hyperactivity” PSI subscale correlated significantly with parent HCC ( p  = 0.02). None of the PSI scores correlated with child HCC ( p  ≥ 0.07). The regression model, accounting for 44% of the variance, demonstrated that only child HCC significantly predicted parent HCC ( p  &amp;lt; 0.001), while the “Distraction and Hyperactivity” subscale did not.

• Brænden, Astrid; Zeiner, Pål; Coldevin, Marit Melnæs; Stubberud, Jan Egil & Melinder, Annika Maria Désirée (2022). Underlying mechanisms of disruptive mood dysregulation disorder in children: A systematic review by means of research domain criteria. JCPP Advances. 2, p. 1–24. doi: 10.1002/jcv2.12060. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Background A systematic overview of underlying mechanisms in the new disruptive mood dysregulation disorder (DMDD) diagnosis is needed. The Research Domain Criteria (RDoC) represent a system of six domains of human functioning, which aims to structure the understanding of the nature of mental illnesses. By means of the RDoC framework, the objective of this systematic review is to synthesize available data on children and youths <18 years suffering from DMDD as reported in peer reviewed papers. Methods A literature search guided by PRISMA was conducted using Medline, PsychInfo, and Embase, while the RDoC domains were employed to systematize research findings. Risk of bias in the included studies was examined. Results We identified 319 studies. After study selection, we included 29 studies. Twenty-one of these had findings relating to >1 RDoC domain. The risk of bias assessment shows limitations in the research foundation of current knowledge on mechanisms of DMDD. Discussion Reviewing self-report, behavior and neurocircuit findings by means of RDoC domains, we suggest that DMDD youths have a negative interpretation bias in social processes and valence systems. In occurrence of a negative stimuli interpretation, aberrant cognitive processing may arise. However, current knowledge of DMDD is influenced by lack of sample diversity and open science practices. Conclusion We found the six RDoC domains useful in structuring current evidence of the underlying mechanisms of DMDD. Important opportunities for future studies in this field of research are suggested. In clinical practice, this comprehensive summary on DMDD mechanisms can be used in psychoeducation and treatment plans.

• Olsen, Alexander; Dennis, Emily L.; Stubberud, Jan Egil; Hovenden, Elizabeth S.; Solbakk, Anne-Kristin & Endestad, Tor [Show all 10 contributors for this article] (2022). Regional brain volume prior to treatment is linked to outcome after cognitive rehabilitation in traumatic brain injury. NeuroImage: Clinical. 35. doi: 10.1016/j.nicl.2022.103126. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Cognitive rehabilitation is useful for many after traumatic brain injury (TBI), but we lack critical knowledge about which patients benefit the most from different approaches. Advanced neuroimaging techniques have provided important insight into brain pathology and systems plasticity after TBI, and have potential to inform new practices in cognitive rehabilitation. In this study, we aimed to identify candidate structural brain measures with relevance for rehabilitation of cognitive control (executive) function after TBI. Twenty-eight patients (9 female, mean age 40.5 (SD = 13.04) years) with TBI (>21 months since injury) that participated in a randomized controlled cognitive rehabilitation trial (NCT02692352) were included in the analyses. Regional brain volume was extracted from T1-weighted MRI scans before treatment using tensor-based morphometry. Both positive and negative associations between treatment outcome (everyday cognitive control function) and regional brain volume were observed. The most robust associations between regional brain volume and improvement in function were observed in midline fronto-parietal regions, including the anterior and posterior cingulate cortices. The study provides proof of concept and valuable insight for planning future studies focusing on neuroimaging in cognitive rehabilitation after TBI.

• Jensen, Daniel Andre; Lundervold, Astri J.; Stubberud, Jan Egil; Halmøy, Anne; Haavik, Jan & Sørensen, Lin (2022). Goal management training improves executive control in adults with ADHD: an open trial employing attention network theory to examine effects on attention. BMC Psychology. 10, p. 1–12. doi: 10.1186/s40359-022-00902-9. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Background Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) typically experience poorer attentional control. According to the attention network theory, attentional control relies on three interacting networks of alerting, orienting, and executive control. In ADHD, it is mainly the alerting and executive control networks that are suggested and found to be compromised. Methods In the current study, we investigated if a group-based metacognitive remediation program (Goal Management Training [GMT]) in adults with ADHD would enhance attentional control using an experimental measure of the attention network theory. We expected that GMT would specifically enhance the executive control and alerting networks. Results Data from post- and follow up-assessments of 21 adults (age: 39.05 [11.93]) with ADHD who had completed GMT were included. Linear mixed-effects modeling revealed significant improvements in the functioning of the executive control network for the majority of the participants, although a small subset of participants showed a negative development following the intervention. Results also showed an improvement in the orienting network at follow up, but no change in the alerting network. Conclusion The results may indicate that improvements in the functioning of the executive control network are central to the positive effects of GMT reported in disorders characterized by impaired attentional control.

• Haugen, Ingvild; Ueland, Torill; Stubberud, Jan Egil; Brunborg, Cathrine; Wykes, Til & Øie, Merete Glenne [Show all 7 contributors for this article] (2022). Moderators of metacognitive strategy training for executive functioning in early schizophrenia and psychosis risk. Schizophrenia Research: Cognition. 31. doi: 10.1016/j.scog.2022.100275. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Goal Management Training (GMT) improved self-reported executive functioning in a recent randomized, controlled trial in early intervention for psychosis participants. Little is known about the mechanism for this benefit, so this study investigates objectively measured executive function, the difference between subjective and objective executive function, independent living and employment status as potential moderators of efficacy of GMT. Baseline scores from 81 participants (GMT n = 39 vs Treatment-as-usual; TAU n = 42) were analyzed in a linear mixed model analysis for repeated measures as predictors of improvement on the self-reported Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function–Adult version (BRIEF-A) immediately and 30 weeks after GMT. Potential moderators were scores from objective measures of executive functioning, discrepancy between subjective and objective measures, independent living and employment status. Discrepancy was assessed by comparing four clusters of participants with differing patterns of scores. The effect of GMT remained significant regardless of initial objective executive functioning at baseline. Those with higher subjective complaints at baseline in two clusters with (i) both objective and subjective executive dysfunction, and (ii) mostly subjective executive dysfunction experienced greater change after treatment. Living arrangements or participation in education or work did not significantly moderate the effects of GMT. Poor performance on neuropsychological tasks is not an obstacle to making use of GMT, but further knowledge is needed about the benefits of strategy training for individuals with a combination of poor performance with few subjective complaints.

• Hoorelbeke, Kristof; Zwalmen, Yannick Vander; Hagen, Bjørn Ingulfsvann; Stubberud, Jan Egil & Koster, Ernst (2022). Connecting residual depressive symptoms to self-reported executive functioning: A network analytical approach. Journal of Psychiatric Research. ISSN 0022-3956. 155, p. 75–84. doi: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2022.08.007. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Persisting executive functioning (EF) impairments following remission from depression form an important source of disability in daily life. However, little is known regarding how specific aspects of EF relate to residual depressive symptomatology. Using network analysis, the current study investigates unique associations between cognitive-, affective-, and somatic depressive symptoms (Beck Depression Inventory 2nd edition, BDI-II) and self- reported EF (Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function – Adult version, BRIEF-A) in a sample of 161 remitted depressed individuals. We identified three clusters of closely connected nodes, corresponding with the Metacognition- and Behavioral Regulation Index of the BRIEF-A, and one cluster consisting of cognitive, affec- tive-, and somatic depressive symptomatology. Among the clusters consisting of EF domains, working memory and shifting difficulties emerged as bridging nodes. Depressive cognition most strongly connected the cluster of depressive symptoms with the EF clusters. Depressive symptom dimensions demonstrated both shared and unique associations with EF domains. Each depressive symptom dimension was directly related to emotional control impairments. In addition, multiple associations were observed between depressive symptomatology and complaints at the level of working memory, shifting, and planning/organizing. Depressive affect was uniquely related to difficulties initiating activity. The current findings provide insights into the relationship between perceived difficulties in EF and residual depressive symptomatology. EF domains were differentially related to depressive symptom dimensions, suggesting the need for further research into the role of EF following remission from depression.

• Hypher, Ruth Elizabeth; Brandt, Anne Elisabeth; Skovlund, Eva; Skarbø, Anne-Britt; Barder, Helene & Andersson, Stein [Show all 10 contributors for this article] (2022). Metacognitive Strategy Training Versus Psychoeducation for Improving Fatigue in Children and Adolescents With Acquired Brain Injuries: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Neuropsychology. ISSN 0894-4105. 36(7), p. 579–596. doi: 10.1037/neu0000845. Full text in Research Archive
• Finnanger, Torun Gangaune; Andersson, Stein; Chevignard, Mathilde; Johansen, Gøril Okkenhaug; Brandt, Anne Elisabeth & Hypher, Ruth Elizabeth [Show all 9 contributors for this article] (2022). Assessment of Executive Function in Everyday Life—Psychometric Properties of the Norwegian Adaptation of the Children’s Cooking Task. Frontiers in Human Neuroscience. 15. doi: 10.3389/fnhum.2021.761755. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Background: There are few standardized measures available to assess executive function (EF) in a naturalistic setting for children. The Children’s Cooking Task (CCT) is a complex test that has been specifically developed to assess EF in a standardized open-ended environment (cooking). The aim of the present study was to evaluate the internal consistency, inter-rater reliability, sensitivity and specificity, and also convergent and divergent validity of the Norwegian version of CCT among children with pediatric Acquired Brain Injury (pABI) and healthy controls (HCs). Methods: The present study has a cross-sectional design, based on baseline data derived from a multicenter RCT. Seventy-five children with pABI from two university hospitals with parent-reported executive dysfunction and minimum of 12 months since injury/completed cancer therapy, as well as 59 HCs aged 10–17 years, were assessed with CCT using total errors as the main outcome measure. The pABI group completed tests assessing EF (i.e., inhibition, cognitive flexibility, working memory, and planning) on the impairment level within the ICF framework (performance-based neuropsychological tests and the Behavioral Assessment of the Dysexecutive Syndrome for Children), and on the participation level (questionnaires). In addition, they completed tests of intellectual ability, processing speed, attention, learning, and memory. Finally, overall functional outcome (pediatric Glasgow Outcome Scale-Extended) was evaluated for the children with pABI. Results: Acceptable internal consistency and good inter-rater reliability were found for the CCT. Children with pABI performed significantly worse on the CCT than the HCs. The CCT identified group membership, but the sensitivity and specificity were overall classified as poor. Convergent validity was demonstrated by associations between the CCT and performance-based tests assessing inhibition, cognitive flexibility, and working memory, as well as teacher-reported executive dysfunction (questionnaires). Divergent validity was supported by the lack of association with performance-based measures of learning and memory, attention, and verbal intellectual ability. However, there was a moderate association between the CCT and performance-based tests of processing speed. Lastly, better performance on the CCT was associated with a better functional outcome. Conclusion: Our study with a relatively large sample of children with pABI and HC’s demonstrated good psychometric properties of the CCT. CCT performance was associated with the overall level of disability and function, suggesting that CCT is related to the level of activity in everyday life and participation in society. Hence, our study suggests that the CCT has the potential to advance the assessment of EF by providing a valid analysis of real-world performance. Nevertheless, further research is needed on larger samples, focusing on predictors of task performance, and evaluating the ability of CCT to detect improvement in EF over time. The patterns of error and problem-solving strategies evaluated by the CCT could be used to inform neuropsychological rehabilitation treatmentand represent a more valid outcome measure of rehabilitation interventions.

• Stubberud, Jan Egil; Hypher, Ruth Elizabeth; Brandt, Anne Elisabeth; Finnanger, Torun Gangaune; Skovlund, Eva & Andersson, Stein [Show all 8 contributors for this article] (2022). Predictors of Functional School Outcome in Children With Pediatric Acquired Brain Injury. Frontiers in Neurology. 13. doi: 10.3389/fneur.2022.872469. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Objective: Among the variety of domains that may be impacted after pediatric acquired brain injury (pABI) are functional school outcomes. The purpose of this study was to identify demographic, medical, and psychological factors associated with impairments in functional school outcomes, defined as school absence, need of educational and psychological services, quality of life (QoL) in the school setting, and academic performance in children with pABI, with a specific emphasis on the significance of fatigue. Materials and Method: We used baseline data from a randomized controlled trial. The sample consisted of seventy-six children aged 10 to 17 (M = 13 yrs) with pABI in the chronic phase (>1 year). All completed assessments of school-related QoL, academic performance, global functioning, fatigue, IQ, behavioral problems, and executive function. Results: Fatigue, IQ, global functioning, behavioral problems, and sex emerged as potential predictors for functional school outcomes. Of note, overall fatigue emerged as the strongest potential predictor for parent-reported QoL in school (β = 0.548; p < 0.001) and self-reported QoL in school (β = 0.532; p < 0.001). Conclusions: Following pABI, specific psychological, medical, and demographic factors are associated with functional school outcomes. Neither of the injury-related variables age at insult and time since insult were associated with functional school outcomes. Overall, our findings may suggest that a reintroduction to school with personalized accommodations tailored to the child's specific function and symptoms, such as fatigue, is recommended.

• Romundstad, Bendik; Solem, Stian; Brandt, Anne Elisabeth; Hypher, Ruth Elizabeth; Risnes, Kari & Rø, Torstein Baade [Show all 8 contributors for this article] (2022). Validity of the Behavioural Assessment of the Dysexecutive Syndrome for Children (BADS-C) in children and adolescents with pediatric acquired brain injury. Neuropsychological Rehabilitation. ISSN 0960-2011. 33(4), p. 551–573. doi: 10.1080/09602011.2022.2034649. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  The Behavioural Assessment of the Dysexecutive Syndrome for Children (BADS-C) was developed to address the need for a standardized ecologically valid test of executive function (EF) in the pediatric population. Our study aimed to investigate the discriminant, concurrent, and ecological validity of BADS-C in a sample with pediatric acquired brain injury (pABI). Seventy-four participants with pABI aged 10–17 years were included to a pre-registered randomized controlled trial, and baseline assessment was used for the current study. Controls consisted of 60 participants aged 10–17 years. Participants with pABI were assessed with neuropsychological tests and questionnaires of EF, and measurements of general intellectual ability (IQ). Results showed that all BADS-C subtests discriminated between participants with pABI and controls, except for the Playing Cards Test. Concurrent and ecological validity was demonstrated through associations between BADS-C total score, Key Search Test, and Zoo Map Test 1, and neuropsychological tests and teacher questionnaire ratings of EF. Key Search Test and Zoo Map Test 1 predicted teacher ratings of EF, beyond IQ and other neuropsychological test of EF. These findings provide support for BADS-C as a valid clinical assessment tool that can detect everyday executive dysfunction in the pABI population, and guide rehabilitation and treatment decisions.

• Haugen, Ingvild; Stubberud, Jan Egil; Haug, Elisabeth; McGurk, Susan R.; Hovik, Kjell Tore & Ueland, Torill [Show all 7 contributors for this article] (2022). A randomized controlled trial of Goal Management Training for executive functioning in schizophrenia spectrum disorders or psychosis risk syndromes. BMC Psychiatry. 22(1). doi: 10.1186/s12888-022-04197-3. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Background Executive functioning is essential to daily life and severely impaired in schizophrenia and psychosis risk syndromes. Goal Management Training (GMT) is a theoretically founded, empirically supported, metacognitive strategy training program designed to improve executive functioning. Methods A randomized controlled parallel group trial compared GMT with treatment as usual among 81 participants (GMT, n = 39 versus Wait List Controls, n = 42) recruited from an early intervention for psychosis setting. Computer generated random allocation was performed by someone independent from the study team and raters post-intervention were unaware of allocation. The primary objective was to assess the impact of GMT administered in small groups for 5 weeks on executive functioning. The secondary objective was to explore the potential of the intervention in influencing daily life functioning and clinical symptoms. Results GMT improved self-reported executive functioning, measured with the Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function – Adult version (BRIEF-A), significantly more than treatment as usual. A linear mixed model for repeated measures, including all partial data according to the principle of intention to treat, showed a significant group x time interaction effect assessed immediately after intervention (post-test) and 6 months after intervention (follow-up), F = 8.40, p .005, r .37. Improvement occurred in both groups in objective executive functioning as measured by neuropsychological tests, functional capacity, daily life functioning and symptoms of psychosis rated by clinicians. Self-reported clinical symptoms measured with the Symptoms Check List (SCL-10) improved significantly more after GMT than after treatment as usual, F = 5.78, p .019, r .29. Two participants withdrew due to strenuous testing and one due to adverse effects. Conclusions GMT had clinically reliable and lasting effects on subjective executive function. The intervention is a valuable addition to available treatment with considerable gains at low cost. Trial registration Registered at clinicaltrials.gov NCT03048695 09/02/2017.

• Rognsvåg, Turid; Lindberg, Maren Falch; Lerdal, Anners; Stubberud, Jan Egil; Furnes, Ove Nord & Holm, Inger [Show all 11 contributors for this article] (2021). Development of an internet-delivered cognitive behavioral therapy program for use in combination with exercise therapy and education by patients at increased risk of chronic pain following total knee arthroplasty. BMC Health Services Research. 21(1), p. 1–14. doi: 10.1186/s12913-021-07177-7. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Background: Approximately 20% of patients experience chronic pain after total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Due to the growing number of TKA procedures, this will affect an increasing number of people worldwide. Catastrophic thinking, dysfunctional illness perception, poor mental health, anxiety and depression characterize these non-improvers, and indicate that these patients may need individualized treatment using a treatment approach based on the bio-psycho-social health model. The present study developed an internet-delivered cognitive behavioral therapy (iCBT) program to be combined with exercise therapy and education for patients with knee osteoarthritis (OA) at increased risk of chronic pain after TKA. Methods: The development process followed the first two phases of the UK Medical Research Council framework for complex interventions. In the development phase, the first prototype of the iCBT program was developed based on literature review, established iCBT programs and multidisciplinary workshops. The feasibility phase consisted of testing the program, interviewing users, condensing the program, and tailoring it to the patient group. A physiotherapist manual was developed and adapted to physiotherapists who will serve as mentors. Results: The development process resulted in an iCBT program consisting of 10 modules with educational texts, videos and exercises related to relevant topics such as goalsetting, stress and pain, lifestyle, automatic thoughts, mindfulness, selective attention, worry and rumination. A physiotherapist manual was developed to guide the physiotherapists in supporting the patients through the program and to optimize adherence to the program. Conclusions: The iCBT program is tailored to patients at risk of chronic pain following TKA, and may be useful as a supplement to surgery and/or exercise therapy. A multicentre RCT will evaluate the iCBT program in combination with an exercise therapy and education program. This novel intervention may be a valuable contribution to the treatment of OA patients at risk of chronic pain after TKA.

• Haugen, Ingvild; Stubberud, Jan; Ueland, Torill; Haug, Elisabeth & Øie, Merete Glenne (2021). Executive dysfunction in schizophrenia: Predictors of the discrepancy between subjective and objective measures. Schizophrenia Research: Cognition. 26. doi: 10.1016/j.scog.2021.100201. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  This study aimed to investigate what characterizes individuals with schizophrenia who experience more or less subjective executive dysfunction in everyday life compared to objective executive performance on neuropsychological tests. Sixty-six participants with broad schizophrenia spectrum disorders completed a comprehensive assessment of executive function. Discrepancies between performance on neuropsychological tests (objective) and an extensive self-report questionnaire (subjective) of central executive functions (inhibition, shifting and working memory) were calculated. Higher level of self-efficacy was the best predictor of experiencing fewer subjective cognitive complaints compared to objective performance, followed by higher levels of disorganized symptoms. Depressive symptoms did not predict discrepancy between subjective and objective executive function. Higher estimated IQ predicted greater subjective working memory difficulties in everyday life despite better objective performance. Results may aid clinicians in the assessment and remediation of cognitive impairment. Low self-efficacy may identify individuals who are not able to utilize their potential executive functions in daily life. Interventions aimed at fostering self-efficacy ought to be included in cognitive remediation for these individuals. Disorganized symptoms could prove useful in identifying individuals who are in need of cognitive remediation for executive dysfunction, despite that they overestimate their skills. These individuals may benefit from efforts to increase insight into cognitive dysfunction. Keywords: Cognition; Cognitive impairment; Executive function; Psychosis; Schizophrenia; Self-efficacy; Subjective assessment. © 2021 The Authors.

• Messel, Mari Sælid; Raud, Liisa; Hoff, Per Kristian; Stubberud, Jan & Huster, Rene Jürgen (2021). Frontal-midline theta reflects different mechanisms associated with proactive and reactive control of inhibition. NeuroImage. ISSN 1053-8119. 241, p. 1–14. doi: 10.1016/j.neuroimage.2021.118400. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Reactive control of response inhibition is associated with a right-lateralised cortical network, as well as frontal-midline theta (FM-theta) activity measured at the scalp. However, response inhibition is also governed by proactive control processes, and how such proactive control is reflected in FM-theta activity and associated neural source activity remains unclear. To investigate this, simultaneous recordings of electroencephalography (EEG) and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) data was performed while participants performed a cued stop-signal task. The cues (0%, 25% or 66%) indicated the likelihood of an upcoming stop-signal in the following trial. Results indicated that participants adjusted their behaviour proactively, with increasing go-trial reaction times following increasing stop-signal probability, as well as modulations of both go-trial and stop-trial accuracies. Target-locked theta activity was higher in stop-trials than go-trials and modulated by probability. At the single-trial level, cue-locked theta was associated with shorter reaction-times, while target-locked theta was associated with both faster reaction times and higher probability of an unsuccessful stop-trial. This dissociation was also evident at the neural source level, where a joint ICA revealed independent components related to going, stopping and proactive preparation. Overall, the results indicate that FM-theta activity can be dissociated into several mechanisms associated with proactive control, response initiation and response inhibition processes. We propose that FM-theta activity reflects both heightened preparation of the motor control network, as well as stopping-related processes associated with a right lateralized cortical network.

• Egset, Kaja Solland; Weider, Siri; Stubberud, Jan Egil; Hjemdal, Odin; Ruud, Ellen & Hjort, Magnus Aassved [Show all 10 contributors for this article] (2021). Cognitive Rehabilitation for Neurocognitive Late Effects in Adult Survivors of Childhood Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia: A Feasibility and Case-Series Study. Frontiers in Psychology. 12. doi: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.724960. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Neurocognitive late effects following the diagnosis and treatment of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) commonly include impaired executive functions (EFs), with negative consequences for one’s health-related quality of life and mental health. However, interventions for EF impairments are scarce. Thus, the aims of this study were to (1) explore the feasibility and acceptability of the cognitive rehabilitation program Goal Management Training (GMT) and (2) examine whether GMT is associated with positive outcomes across cases of ALL survivors with EF complaints. Four participants (median age 31.5 years) underwent nine GMT modules in a total of five group sessions. Rehabilitation was focused on compensatory strategies to improve real-life EFs. Participants were evaluated at 2-week and 6-month follow-ups. Evaluation of feasibility and acceptability included adherence, a semi structured interview, self-reports, and safety. Additionally, therapists’ experience with implementation was evaluated. Outcome measures included self-reports and neurocognitive tests of attention, EF, and processing speed. All participants completed GMT and rated the intervention as useful, suitable, and satisfactory. The reliable change index showed improved daily life EFs (two participants) and neurocognitive performance (three participants) at 6-month follow-up. Additionally, all participants improved on a “real-life” task involving EF. A future randomized controlled trial is recommended.

• Hagen, Bjørn Ole Ingulfsvann; Landrø, Nils Inge; Hoorelbeke, Kristof; Lau, Bjørn & Stubberud, Jan Egil (2021). Characteristics associated with the discrepancy between subjective and objective executive functioning in depression. Applied neuropsychology: Adult. ISSN 2327-9095. p. 1–11. doi: 10.1080/23279095.2021.1969398. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Major depressive disorder (MDD) is associated with both self-reported (subjective) cognitive complaints and deficits in neurocognitive (objective) measures, but the correspondence between subjective and objective measures of cognition is low. This cross-sectional study aimed to (1) assess the association between subjective and objective measures of executive functions (EFs), and (2) explore factors associated with the discrepancy between subjective and objective EFs in MDD. Sixty-two participants with current or previous mild to moderate MDD and subjective EF complaints completed a clinical trial baseline assessment. An objective EF composite score was drawn from six neurocognitive measures, while the Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function-Adult version was applied as a measure of subjective EF. The association between the subjective and objective composites was evaluated using Spearman’s rank order correlation. A discrepancy score was calculated to quantify the difference between subjective and objective EF. Factors associated with the discrepancy score were analyzed using regression analysis (p < .05). Participants reported extensive EF difficulties, but most performed in the normal range on objective EF measures. A weak correlation was detected between the subjective and objective measures (rs = .015). More rumination (β = −.364) and higher IQ (β = −.420) were associated with reporting more subjective complaints than was evident from objective measures of EF (i.e., underestimation). Subjective and objective EF measures are weakly overlapping in MDD. Findings underscore recommendations to include both subjective and objective measures when assessing EFs in depression. In addition, findings suggest that targeting ruminative processes could help correct underestimation.

• Stubberud, Jan Egil; Huster, Rene Jürgen; Hoorelbeke, K.; Hammar, Åsa Karin & Hagen, Bjørn Ole Ingulfsvann (2021). Improved emotion regulation in depression following cognitive remediation: A randomized controlled trial. Behaviour Research and Therapy. ISSN 0005-7967. 147, p. 1–11. doi: 10.1016/j.brat.2021.103991. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Objective Executive functions (EFs) play a key role in emotion regulation and, related to this, depression. Cognitive remediation (CR) targeting EFs, such as Goal Management Training (GMT) and computerized cognitive training (CCT), may reduce maladaptive emotion regulation. However, the clinical potential of GMT in the context of depression and emotion regulation remains to be tested. Hence, the primary aim of the present study was to compare effects of GMT with CCT on symptoms of emotion dysregulation. Method The paper reports the effects of a preregistered randomized controlled trial. Sixty-three participants (18–60yrs) with active or remitted depression and EF complaints were randomized to nine sessions of GMT (n = 35) or CCT (n = 28). All were assessed at baseline, post-intervention, and at 6-month follow-up. The Ruminative Response Scale and the Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale were employed to assess emotion regulation. Results Both groups improved following the intervention on emotion regulation domains after controlling for intention-to-treat, including brooding rumination and on items reflecting non-accepting reactions to distress. Relative to CCT, the GMT-group demonstrated increased clarity of emotional responses in the per protocol analysis. Conclusions Our findings demonstrate the potential of GMT and CCT in reducing maladaptive emotion regulation in depression.

• Brandt, Anne Elisabeth; Finnanger, Torun Gangaune; Hypher, Ruth E.; Rø, Torstein Baade; Skovlund, Eva & Andersson, Stein [Show all 8 contributors for this article] (2021). Rehabilitation of executive function in chronic paediatric brain injury: a randomized controlled trial. BMC Medicine. 19(1), p. 1–15. doi: 10.1186/s12916-021-02129-8. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Background Impaired executive functions (EFs, i.e., purposeful, goal-directed behaviour) cause significant disability after paediatric acquired brain injury (pABI) warranting efficient interventions. Goal Management Training (GMT) is a metacognitive protocol proven effective for executive dysfunction in adults. This pre-registered, blinded, parallel-randomized controlled trial evaluated efficacy of a paediatric adaptation (pGMT) compared to a psychoeducative control (paediatric Brain Health Workshop, pBHW) to improve EF. Methods Children aged 10 to 17 years with pABI (e.g., traumatic brain injury, brain tumour), ≥ 1 year post-onset or ended treatment, with parent-reported EF complaints were eligible. Participants were randomized (computer-algorithm) to either group-based pGMT (n = 38) or pBHW (n = 38). The active control was tailored to keep non-specific factors constant. Thus, both treatments comprised of 7 sessions at hospitals over 3 consecutive weeks, followed by 4 weeks of telephone counselling of participants, parents, and teachers. Parent-reported daily life EF, assessed by the questionnaire Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function (BRIEF; Behavioral Regulation Index (BRI) and Metacognition Index (MI)), were co-primary outcomes 6 months post-intervention. Secondary outcomes included neuropsychological tests and a complex naturalistic task (Children’s Cooking Task). Results Seventy-three participants (96%) completed allocated interventions and 71 (93%) attended the 6-month follow-up. The results demonstrated no significant difference in effectiveness for the two interventions on parent-reported EF: For BRIEFBRI, mean (SD) raw score for pGMT was 42.7 (8.8) and 38.3 (9.3) for pBHW. Estimated difference was − 2.3 (95% CI − 5.1 to 0.6). For BRIEFMI, the corresponding results were 80.9 (20.4) for GMT and 75.5 (19.3) for pBHW. Estimated difference was − 1.4 (95% CI −8.5 to 5.8). In performance-based tests, pGMT was associated with improved inhibition and executive attention, while pBHW was associated with fewer errors in the naturalistic task. Conclusions In pABI, metacognitive training (pGMT) did not demonstrate additional effectiveness on parent-reported daily life EF at 6-month follow-up, when compared to a psychoeducative control. Both interventions were well-tolerated and demonstrated distinct improvements at different EF assessment levels. To conclude on pGMT efficacy, larger studies are needed, including further investigation of appropriate assessment levels and possible differences in effect related to treatment duration, developmental factors, and injury characteristics.Lagt

• Hypher, Ruth Elizabeth; Andersson, Stein; Finnanger, Torun Gangaune; Brandt, Anne Elisabeth; Hoorelbeke, Kristof & Lie, Hanne Cathrine [Show all 11 contributors for this article] (2021). Fatigue Following Pediatric Acquired Brain Injury: Interplay With Associated Factors in a Clinical Trial Population Compared to Healthy Controls. Neuropsychology. ISSN 0894-4105. 35(6), p. 609–621. doi: 10.1037/neu0000753. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Objective: The aims of the present study were to compare fatigue levels in children with pediatric acquired brain injury (pABI) with healthy controls (HCs), and examine the interplay of fatigue with associated factors. Method: We used baseline data from a preregistered randomized controlled trial. Seventy-six children aged 10–17 (median 13 years) with pABI in the chronic phase (88% with confirmatory cerebral imaging findings) and executive function (EF) complaints were included, most with moderate disability according to The Glasgow Outcome Scale Extended (GOSE-E) categorization. HCs consisted of 60 children aged 10–17 (median 13 years). All 127 participants completed measures of fatigue and intelligence. pABI participants were also assessed for behavioral problems, health-related quality of life (HRQoL), and EF. Nonparametric statistics were employed, in addition to a network analysis to model the unique associations between parent-reported fatigue and related factors. Results: Parents reported significantly more fatigue in the pABI-group (75% of scores in clinical range; < 70) compared to HCs (11.7% of scores in clinical range). No strong associations were found between fatigue and injury characteristics, but findings indicated more fatigue in the older than younger age-group for pABI participants. Network modeling revealed a central role for HRQoL, behavioral, and EF symptoms in relation to fatigue. Conclusions: Fatigue is reported to be highly prevalent in the chronic phase of pABI. When addressing fatigue, our findings demonstrate the advantage of including multidimensional measures of fatigue and examining associated psychological and cognitive constructs, such as HRQoL, behavioral problems, and EF. Impact Statement Question: What is the prevalence and severity of fatigue in children and adolescents with pediatric brain injuries, and is it related to other factors? Findings: For the majority of children in chronic phase of pABI, parents reported fatigue in the clinical range. Fatigue is associated with health-related quality of life, behavioral problems, and executive function. Importance: Fatigue is a complex symptom that negatively impacts functioning across a range of areas, and needs to be addressed in all phases of brain injury rehabilitation. Next Steps: Longitudinal studies are needed to confirm the directionality of the relationships between factors associated with fatigue.

View all works in NVA

• Stubberud, Jan Egil (2026). Slik når du nyttårsforsettet ditt. [Internet]. NRK.no. Full text in Research Archive
• Stubberud, Jan Egil (2026). Netflix anklaget for å dumme ned filmene sine: - Det er tragisk. [Journal]. Journalen. Full text in Research Archive
• Stubberud, Jan Egil (2026). Skal du bli en bedre versjon av deg selv, igjen? [Journal]. Universitas. Full text in Research Archive
• Stubberud, Jan Egil (2026). Måloppnåelse. [TV]. NRK. Full text in Research Archive
• Stubberud, Jan Egil (2026). Milena (25) klarte aldri nyttårsforsettene sine. Så knekte hun koden. [Journal]. Drammens Tidende. Full text in Research Archive
• Stubberud, Jan Egil (2025). Slik når du nyttårsforsettet ditt. [Radio]. NRK. Full text in Research Archive
• Linnestad, Anne-Margrethe; Skogestad, Ingrid Johansen; Gay, Caryl; Borge, Christine Råheim; Indredavik, Bent & Stubberud, Jan Egil [Show all 7 contributors for this article] (2025). E-poster #786_17th World Stroke Congress, 22-24 October 2025, Barcelona, Spain. doi: 10.1177/17474930251371440. Full text in Research Archive
• Buer, Sofie; Hagen, Bjørn Ole Ingulfsvann; Søraas, Arne Vasli Lund; White, Richard Aubrey; Lerdal, Anners & Nygaard, Anders Benteson [Show all 7 contributors for this article] (2025). Working Memory Deficits in the post-acute phase of COVID-19 in a Clinical Trial Population. doi: https:/event.trippus.net/Home/Index/AEAKgIPHKxDGXt9WWufkKpiqnCz6wQruet7nzC50zg3_S3hAj-XGe9T9NTp47uSsFlG4xbd_zhBm/AEAKgIPGaNFh8o7gPpdTB6e-8t5U-Cs-bMNPVzKOFUzFTeufxZ-sT9BfzwNmJiybZYKgn43Mnh4S/eng. Full text in Research Archive
• Linnestad, Anne-Margrethe; Skogestad, Ingrid Johansen; Gay, Caryl; Borge, Christine Råheim; Indredavik, Bent & Stubberud, Jan Egil [Show all 7 contributors for this article] (2025). UNDERSTANDING DIGITAL HEALTH LITERACY AMONG STROKE SURVIVORS: A CLUSTER ANALYSIS APPROACH (NORFAST). Full text in Research Archive
• Simpson, Dawn; Gay, Caryl; Berg, Søren; English, Coralie; Ihle-Hansen, Hege Beate & Helland, Gisle Berg [Show all 11 contributors for this article] (2025). Self-reported and objective sleep measures: Their role in post-stroke fatigeu among acute stroke patients - (NORFAST). Full text in Research Archive
• Finstad, Therese Aamli; Larsen, Marie Hamilton; Stubberud, Jan Egil; Lerdal, Anners; Gay, Caryl & Lindberg, Maren Falch (2025). Breaking New Ground: Cluster-Based Insights into Digital Health Literacy in KOA Patients. Full text in Research Archive
• Simpson, Dawn; Gay, Caryl; Berg, Søren; Ihle-Hansen, Hege Beate; Helland, Gisle Berg & Larsson, Petra [Show all 10 contributors for this article] (2025). The relationship between objective and subjective sleep measures and post-stroke fatkgue: Insights from an acute ischaemic stroke cohort (the NORFAST study). Full text in Research Archive
• Stubberud, Jan Egil (2025). Goal Management Training as a neuropsychological rehabilitation method for executive dysfunction. Full text in Research Archive
• Haugen, Ingvild; Gulsrud, Anne Myge; Dyresen, Agnete; Stubberud, Jan Egil; Fjermestad, Krister Westlye & Øie, Merete Glenne (2025). Adolescents with ADHD and their caregivers find Goal Management Training as credible as standard treatment. Full text in Research Archive
• Gulsrud, Anne Myge; Haugen, Ingvild; Dyresen, Agnete; Westlye, Lars Tjelta; Alnæs, Dag & Fjermestad, Krister Westlye [Show all 8 contributors for this article] (2025). iPad-based Assessment of Executive Function and Processing Speed in Adolescents with ADHD. Full text in Research Archive
• Dyresen, Agnete; Haugen, Ingvild; Gulsrud, Anne Myge; Stubberud, Jan Egil; Fjermestad, Krister Westlye & Øie, Merete Glenne (2025). Adapting Metacognitive Strategy Training for Adolescents with ADHD. Full text in Research Archive
• Stubberud, Jan Egil (2024). Hvordan konsentrere oss bedre. [Radio]. NRK. Nyhetsmorgen. Full text in Research Archive
• Buer, Sofie; Hagen, Bjørn Ingulfsvann; Nygaard, Anders Benteson; Bø, Ragnhild; Ellingjord-Dale, Merete & Istre, M.S. [Show all 12 contributors for this article] (2024). Cognitive rehabilitation of executive functions and attention in post-COVID-19 condition: A randomized controlled trial. Full text in Research Archive
• Ingebretsen, Silje Merethe Hansen; Kirmess, Melanie & Stubberud, Jan Egil (2024). Response to Letter to the Editor: Rehabilitation of Social Communication Skills in Patients With Acquired Brain Injury With Intensive and Standard Group Interactive Structured Treatment: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. ISSN 0003-9993. 106(1), p. 151–152. doi: 10.1016/j.apmr.2024.09.009. Full text in Research Archive
• Stubberud, Jan Egil (2024). Neuropsychological outcomes after Covid-19. Full text in Research Archive
• Stubberud, Jan Egil (2024). Psykiske lidelser, kognisjon og arbeidsfunksjon. Full text in Research Archive
• Stubberud, Jan Egil (2024). Et blikk på det eksekutive. Full text in Research Archive
• Buer, Sofie; Stubberud, Jan Egil; Hagen, Bjørn Ole Ingulfsvann; Nygaard, Anders Benteson; Søraas, Arne Vasli Lund & Lerdal, Anners [Show all 12 contributors for this article] (2024). Executive functions following COVID-19. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  A significant proportion of patients recovering from SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) exhibit deficits in executive functions. This presentation highlighted preliminary results from a cross-sectional population study examining these executive deficits following SARS-CoV-2 infection. Additionally, it introduced early findings from a randomized controlled trial (RCT) assessing the effectiveness of Goal Management Training in improving executive functions for individuals experiencing Post-COVID-19 conditions.

• Stubberud, Jan Egil (2024). Hvordan lese best mulig til eksamen? [TV]. NRK. Nyhetsmorgen. Full text in Research Archive
• Stubberud, Jan Egil (2024). Forsker: Du er ikke så god til å multitaske som du tror. [Journal]. NRK. Full text in Research Archive
• Buer, Sofie & Stubberud, Jan Egil (2024). Her hviler Carina på jobb. [Journal]. NRK. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Omfanget av «hjernetåke» etter korona overrasker forskerne. NRK. https://www.nrk.no/rogaland/omfanget-av-_hjernetake_-etter-korona-overrasker-forskerne-1.17115898

• Øie, Merete Glenne; Haugen, Ingvild; Dyresen, Agnete; Gulsrud, Anne Myge; Stubberud, Jan Egil & Fjermestad, Krister Westlye (2024). Behovet er stort for nye tilnærminger til ADHD-behandling. Debattinlegg. Aftenposten. Full text in Research Archive
• Lindberg, Maren Falch; Aamodt, Arild; Badawy, Mona; Bergvad, Ingvild Buset; Furnes, Ove Nord & Gay, Caryl [Show all 13 contributors for this article] (2024). Education, exercise therapy and iCBT for patients with knee osteoarthritis - the MultiKnee trial. Full text in Research Archive
• Hagen, Bjørn Ingulfsvann; Landrø, Nils Inge; Hoorelbeke, Kristof; Lau, Bjørn & Stubberud, Jan Egil (2023). Discrepancies between Subjective and Objective Measures of Cognitive Control. Full text in Research Archive
• Stubberud, Jan Egil (2023). Problemet med å overse nevropsykologien. Tidsskrift for Norsk psykologforening (Psykologtidsskriftet). ISSN 0332-6470. Full text in Research Archive
• Linnestad, Anne-Margrethe; Skogestad, Ingrid Johansen; Stubberud, Jan Egil; Indredavik, Bent; Lerdal, Anners & Gay, Caryl (2023). Using Stroke Patients´ Digital Health Skills to Inform e-Health Intervention Development. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Background: e-Health interventions are increasingly important in healthcare services. Describing and assessing the digital health literacy (HL) and competency of stroke survivors may enable healthcare providers to design patient-centered e-Health interventions aligned with their needs. By gaining insights into the digital health skills of the stroke population, healthcare providers can optimize the use of e-Health technologies like for example using tailored technologies as the FatigueACt app to improve stroke patients' health outcomes. Aim: Describe the HL and digital HL of a representative sample of stroke survivors who have been admitted to Norwegian hospitals and identify clusters of stroke patients with distinct digital HL profiles, both strengths and needs. Methods: The study has a cross-sectional design and a sample of 200 stroke survivors is randomly drawn from the Norwegian stroke population registered in the Norwegian Stroke Registry. Data will be collected using a structured telephone interview and questionnaires. Expected results: The description of digital HL profiles of stroke patients and identification of distinct clusters with varying levels of literacy in multiple domains, may provide valuable insights for the development of e-Health interventions. Conclusions: Understanding the digital health skills of the stroke population is crucial for tailoring e-Health interventions. Hence, we will use these findings to inform the design and customization of a phone application (FatigueACt) to address the unique needs of stroke patients with fatigue.

• Stubberud, Jan Egil (2023). Unik norsk forskning gir håp. [TV]. Tv2. Full text in Research Archive
• Stubberud, Jan Egil (2023). Long covid: Lene (49) har vært syk i to år - men nå kommer et håp. [Internet]. Tv2.no. Full text in Research Archive
• Egset, Kaja Solland; Stubberud, Jan Egil; Weider, Siri; Ruud, Ellen; Hjort, Magnus Aassved & Eilertsen, Mary-Elizabeth B [Show all 9 contributors for this article] (2022). Neurocognitive outcome in long-term, adult survivors of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia treated with chemotherapy only. Full text in Research Archive
• Egset, Kaja Solland; Stubberud, Jan Egil; Weider, Siri; Ruud, Ellen; Hjort, Magnus Aassved & Eilertsen, Mary-Elizabeth B [Show all 9 contributors for this article] (2022). Neurocognitive outcome in long-term, adult survivors of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia treated with chemotherapy only. Pediatric Blood & Cancer. ISSN 1545-5009. Full text in Research Archive
• Stubberud, Jan Egil (2022). Metakognitiv strategitrening som en transdiagnostisk tilnærming for eksekutive vansker. Gjelder dette også for barn? Full text in Research Archive
• Hagen, Bjørn Ingulfsvann; Lerdal, Anners; Søraas, Arne Vasli; Landrø, Nils Inge; Bø, Ragnhild & Småstuen, Milada Cvancarova [Show all 8 contributors for this article] (2022). Cognitive rehabilitation in post-COVID-19 condition: A study protocol for a randomized controlled trial. Contemporary Clinical Trials. ISSN 1551-7144. 122. doi: 10.1016/j.cct.2022.106955. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Background: Post-COVID-19 condition is frequently comprised of persistent cognitive sequela, including deficits in attention and executive functions (EFs), which can act as a barrier for regaining pre-illness functional levels. Goal Management Training (GMT) is a cognitive rehabilitation (CR) intervention for improving attention and EFs that has received empirical support in studies of other patient groups. The present study aims to determine the efficacy of GMT for improving everyday attention and EFs in adults who experience persistent cognitive deficits after COVID-19.<p> <p>Methods: This study protocol describes an open-label randomized controlled trial comparing the efficacy of GMT to a wait list control condition (WL), for improving persistent (> 2 months) cognitive sequela in post-COVID-19 condition. The study aims to recruit 240 participants aged 18 to 65 years with a history of SARS-CoV-2 infection and perceived attentional and EF difficulties in daily life. Participants will be block randomized (computer-algorithm) to either group-based GMT (n = 120) or WL (n = 120). GMT will be internet-delivered to groups of six participants in six two-hour sessions delivered once a week. The primary outcome will be the Metacognition Index of the Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function – Adult Version, a self-report measure assessing everyday EF difficulties, specifically metacognition, at six months post-treatment. Secondary outcomes include performance-based neurocognitive measures, and tertiary outcomes include rating scales of cognition, emotional health, quality of life, and fatigue. <p>Conclusion: Study findings could contribute to providing an evidence-based treatment option for symptoms that are frequent and debilitating following a prevalent condition.

• Stubberud, Jan Egil (2021). Does anxiety and depression modify emotional regulation after acquired brain injury? Full text in Research Archive
• Stubberud, Jan (2021). Hva er det egentlig som skjer når du smeller bobleplast? Og hvorfor oppleves det så tilfredsstillende? [Internet]. Titan.uio.no. Full text in Research Archive
• Stubberud, Jan Egil (2021). Kognitiv rehabilitering. Full text in Research Archive
• Hagen, Bjørn Ingulfsvann & Stubberud, Jan Egil (2021). Depresjon - konsentrer deg om konsentrasjon, og husk hukommelse. Full text in Research Archive
• Egset, Kaja Solland; Reinfjell, Trude; Weider, Siri & Stubberud, Jan Egil (2026). Subjective and objective neurocognitive outcomes in adult survivors of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia, and the possibility of cognitive rehabilitation. Norges teknisk-naturvitenskapelige universitet. ISSN 9788232697632. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Acute lymphoblastic leukemia is the most common childhood cancer diagnosis. Survival rates have improved dramatically since the 1960s, and today most children recover completely. As a result, the number of adults who survived childhood leukemia is steadily increasing. However, both the disease and its treatment can lead to long‑term challenges that affect life after cancer. Cognitive late effects include difficulties with concentration, memory, learning, and executive functions. Executive functions are cognitive control processes that contribute to goal-directed behavior and are thus highly relevant to daily-life functioning. Such difficulties can reduce quality of life, contribute to mental health problems, and create challenges in education and work. Yet knowledge about cognitive late effects in adults who survived childhood leukemia remains limited. The aim of this thesis was therefore to expand knowledge of cognitive functioning and rehabilitation opportunities in this population. We used neuropsychological tests and questionnaires to assess cognitive functions in participants treated at Oslo University Hospital and St. Olavs Hospital. We examined potential risk factors for cognitive late effects, including disease severity and treatment intensity, age at diagnosis, sex, and degree of pain and fatigue in adulthood. We also studied the relationship between participants’ self‑reported cognitive difficulties and their performance on cognitive tests and explored factors that might explain discrepancies between these measures. Finally, we reviewed existing research to determine whether interventions can improve specific cognitive late effects in childhood cancer survivors. Results showed that, as a group, participants had good intellectual functioning but reduced performance on tasks measuring attention, processing speed, and executive functions. A notably high proportion (up to 47%) reported everyday difficulties with executive functions. Some of these difficulties were explained by fatigue. Participants’ self-reported challenges were largely consistent with their neuropsychological test results, though those with higher levels of anxiety and depressive symptoms tended to report more executive function difficulties. The literature review indicated that cognitive rehabilitation may improve performance on attention-demanding tasks, but its impact on daily-life functioning remains uncertain. Adults who survived leukemia in childhood are vulnerable to cognitive late effects, yet knowledge about effective rehabilitation is still limited, highlighting the need for further research.

• Ingebretsen, Silje Merethe Hansen; Kirmess, Melanie & Stubberud, Jan Egil (2023). Treatment of social communication difficulties following acquired brain injury: Efficacy of Group Interactive Structured Treatment. Universitetet i Oslo. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  The purpose of this thesis was to investigate the efficacy of Group Interactive Structured Treatment (GIST) for persons with social communication difficulties (SCDs) after acquired brain injury (ABI). The study included a wider sample than previous studies (including traumatic brain injury, stroke, brain tumor and anoxic brain injury), and examined the effect across delivery formats by comparing the treatment given in two different ways. Standard GIST was given in an outpatient setting once a week, while a newly adapted intensive GIST was given as a four-week inpatient group treatment at Sunnaas Rehabilitation Hospital. The study design is a two-arm RCT with a waiting list control group and repeated measures. Forty-nine pairs of participants, consisting of persons with SCDs and ABI and one of their family members/friends were randomly allocated to the two treatment arms. The results were examined from several perspectives and included reports from people with social communication difficulties and their family members/friends. After the two treatments, the subjects with social communication difficulties reported a trend of improved social communication skills on the primary outcome measure (La Trobe Communication Questionnaire [LCQ]) and a significant improvement on the secondary outcome measure (Social Communication Skills Questionnaire-Adapted [SCSQ-A]) when compared to the waiting list control group. Significant improvement over time was reported after both treatments (standard and intensive GIST) and there were no reported differences in outcomes between the two treatments. The findings were confirmed by reports from family members/friends. However, this study had a small sample (n = 49), and further investigations that include a larger sample and objective outcome measures are warranted. The results from this study and the information presented in this thesis have the potential to influence clinical practice in Norway, and have a significant clinical impact on the treatment of SCDs as the findings validate a Norwegian version of the GIST for clinical use. By focusing on the efficacy of treatment for SCDs and ABI, and the delivery and dosage of GIST, this thesis addresses some key research gaps in the field. The inpatient delivery of intensive GIST might not be transferable to all healthcare systems, especially those where inpatient treatment in the chronic phase is not available. However, our findings provide further validation of GIST and its components and highlight new research questions for further investigation, such as the importance of the components and intensity of GIST.

View all works in NVA