Nils Inge Landrø

• Jonassen, Rune; Øverli, Øyvind; Hilland, Eva; Nilsen, Hilde; Esbensen, Qin Ying & Lirussi, Lisa [Show all 13 contributors for this article] (2026). Serotonin transporter polymorphism (5-HTTLPR) is associated with post-awakening cortisol measures in previous depression. Comprehensive Psychoneuroendocrinology. 27, p. 1–7. doi: 10.1016/j.cpnec.2026.100363. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Elevated cortisol levels have been linked to major depressive disorder (MDD), but cortisol dynamics vary substantially across individuals and clinical states. Genetic variation in the serotonin transporter polymorphism (5-HTTLPR) has been proposed as one contributor to differences in hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis functioning. The present study examined associations between cortisol awakening measures and 5-HTTLPR genotype groups in individuals with a history of depression compared with healthy controls, and explored whether current depressive symptom severity was related to cortisol indices. A total of 108 individuals with a history of depression were genotyped and compared with 59 healthy controls. Participants completed structured diagnostic interviews and self-reported depressive symptoms. Salivary cortisol was sampled in the evening and at five consecutive timepoints after awakening (15-min intervals). Cortisol was analyzed using a linear mixed-effects model of repeated measures and by cortisol awakening response (CAR) summary indices: area under the curve with respect to ground (AUCg) and area under the curve with respect to increase (AUCi). Cortisol changed significantly over time, but there was no evidence that genotype groups differed in the overall cortisol timecourse. In CAR summary analyses, group differences were observed for AUCg, whereas AUCi did not show corresponding group differences. Regression analyses indicated that BDI-II was not associated with AUCg or AUCi after adjustment for covariates. These findings suggest that 5-HTTLPR-related differences, when present, may be more detectable in overall post-awakening cortisol output than in baseline-relative increase.

• Hagen, Hallvard Solbø; Klonteig, Sandra; Røssberg, Jan Ivar; Jonassen, Rune; Landrø, Nils Inge & Bø, Ragnhild (2026). Fronto–Parietal EEG asymmetry interactions predict negative attention bias: A secondary data analysis. Cognitive, Affective, & Behavioral Neuroscience. ISSN 1530-7026. doi: 10.3758/s13415-026-01466-6. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Attention bias (AB), the excessive attentional selection of certain stimuli over others, is found in individuals suffering from depression. Similarly, alpha asymmetries, the lateralization of inhibitory cortical activity in the EEG alpha band (8–13 Hz) have been linked to depression and motivational direction. By contrasting novel and more reliable AB metrics against alpha asymmetries in an exploratory data analysis, we aimed to examine whether hemispheric differences are associated with AB scores, which could in turn refine the current model of AB metrics. Fifty nonclinical females, aged 18–30 years with minimal-to-moderate depressive symptoms were included. The participants performed two sessions of the dot-probe task, measuring AB, consisting of 160 trials each. Primary and ratio AB scores were calculated by using the novel response-based calculations. Furthermore, resting-state 32-channel EEG was measured for 2.5 min. Alpha asymmetry scores were calculated for frontal (F3/F4, F7/F8) and parietal electrode pairs (P3/P4, P7/P8). Correlations and interactions were analyzed. The primary AB scores were positively associated with frontal asymmetries, whereas parietal asymmetries showed negative associations. The ratio AB scores also showed regional differences. Parietal asymmetries interacted significantly with frontal asymmetries and AB. There was a moderate positive correlation between the BDI-II scores and the bias ratio. Our results suggest that alpha asymmetries contribute to individual differences in attention bias, with frontoparietal asymmetry interactions playing a notable role. These findings highlight hemispheric asymmetries as important to consider in future models of attention bias. Nonetheless, the associations are preliminary and call for replication.

• Brunvoll, Sonja Hjellegjerde; Fagerland, Morten Wang; Nygaard, Anders Benteson; Ellingjord-Dale, Merete; Istre, Mette Stausland & Landrø, Nils Inge [Show all 11 contributors for this article] (2026). Long COVID symptoms before and 3-35 months after SARS-CoV-2 infection in a Norwegian prospective cohort study, symptoms over the pandemic, and different virus variants. International Journal of Infectious Diseases. ISSN 1201-9712. 170. doi: 10.1016/j.ijid.2026.108822. Full text in Research Archive
• Magnúsdóttir, Ingibjörg; Nygaard, Anders Benteson; Hoffart, Asle; Murphy, Gillian; Kõiv, Kadri & Barker, Mary M. [Show all 38 contributors for this article] (2026). Acute COVID-19 severity and impaired cognitive function up to 32 months after diagnosis: an observational study. BMC Medicine. 24(1). doi: 10.1186/s12916-026-04856-2. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Background Cognitive dysfunction (“brain fog”) is a commonly reported post-COVID-19 symptom. Leveraging data from five general population cohorts across four European countries (Estonia, Iceland, Norway, and Sweden), we assessed long-term prevalence of impaired subjective cognitive function among individuals diagnosed with COVID-19 by acute illness severity. Methods The included cohorts consisted of adult participants recruited from March 2020 and followed with self-report measures of cognitive function and past COVID-19 infection (except one cohort consisting of clinically confirmed COVID-19 cases) through February 2023. In a cross-sectional analysis we contrasted the prevalence of impaired cognitive function among individuals with and without a COVID-19 diagnosis, overall and by illness severity up to 32 months post-diagnosis. We adjusted for age, gender, education, relationship status, binge drinking, body mass index, previous psychiatric diagnosis, number of chronic medical conditions, and response period. In a longitudinal analysis, we assessed potential changes in cognitive function scores before and after COVID-19 diagnosis. Results The study population consisted of 153,841 participants (71% women), with 31,359 (20.4%) reporting a positive COVID-19 test. Overall, a COVID-19 diagnosis was not statistically significantly associated with increased prevalence ratio (PR) of impaired cognitive function (PR 1.30 [95% CI: 0.98–1.71]). Individuals bedridden due to COVID-19 for 1–6 days (PR 1.38 [95% CI 0.96–1.99]) or ≥ 7 days (2.59 [1.55–4.33]) had higher prevalence of impaired cognitive function compared to those never diagnosed, while individuals never bedridden had a lower prevalence to those never diagnosed with COVID-19 (0.89 [0.80–1.00]). These findings were corroborated in the longitudinal analysis where a pre- to post diagnosis decline in cognitive function was observed among individuals bedridden due to COVID-19 (p < 0.0001). Conclusions The data indicates that a severe COVID-19 acute illness course is associated with impaired cognitive function up to 18–32 months after COVID-19 diagnosis.

• Hagen, Hallvard Solbø; Røssberg, Jan Ivar; Harmer, Catherine; Jonassen, Rune; Landrø, Nils Inge & Bø, Ragnhild (2025). Attention bias at baseline does not moderate the effect of attention bias modification for residual depressive symptoms. Journal of Behavior Therapy and Experimental Psychiatry. ISSN 0005-7916. 90, p. 1–8. doi: 10.1016/j.jbtep.2025.102073. Full text in Research Archive
• Astrup, Guro Lindviksmoen; Siksjø, Monica; Aass, Nina Kathrine; Alves, Guido Werner; Brønnick, Kolbjørn Kallesten & Hjermstad, Marianne Jensen [Show all 12 contributors for this article] (2025). Cognitive function in long-term survivors after treatment for brain metastases compared with normative samples. Neuro-Oncology Practice. ISSN 2054-2577. doi: 10.1093/nop/npaf083. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Background: Few studies have examined cognitive function in long-term survivors with brain metastases (BM). The aim of this study was to assess performance-based cognitive function and compare it with normative samples. Methods: Patients with ≥2-year survival after a first-time BM diagnosis completed neuropsychological tests assessing the following neurocognitive domains: processing speed, executive functioning, mental flexibility, visual learning and memory, verbal learning and memory, attention, and working memory. Test scores were converted into standardized z-scores using normative sample means and standard deviations (SD). The proportions of patients with an individual z-score of ≤−1 and ≤−1.5 SD below the normative sample means were calculated to indicate subclinical and clinically significant impairment. Results: Forty-one patients (median age 58, 24 women) completed assessments at a median of 32 months (min–max: 26–47) after the BM diagnosis. On a group level, patients performed poorer than normative samples in tests within all domains except verbal learning and memory. The deviation was most pronounced in a subtest assessing mental flexibility. The proportion of patients with subclinical or clinically significant impairment ranged from 29% to 59% and 7% to 51% between domains, respectively. Seventy-three percent had at least subclinical and 59% had clinically significant impairment in at least 1 domain. Conclusions: Long-term survivors with BM performed poorer than normative samples within nearly all neurocognitive domains, particularly executive functioning and mental flexibility. This domain is important for daily living and social functioning, and clinicians should provide information about the implications of BM and tailor patient care to optimize functioning and quality of life.

• Bø, Ragnhild; Jonassen, Rune; Harmer, Catherine; Øverli, Øyvind; Nilsen, Hilde & Esbensen, Qin Ying [Show all 13 contributors for this article] (2025). 5-HTTLPR does not moderate the effect of attention bias modification for depression: a randomized sham-controlled trial. Translational Psychiatry. 15, p. 1–6. doi: 10.1038/s41398-025-03581-3. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Abstract The 5-HTTLPR polymorphism in the serotonin transporter gene SLC6A4 has previously been dubbed a plasticity marker. Within the 5-HTTLPR polymorphism, a SNP (rs25531) in the L-allele in the promoter region, affects the transcription efficacy of the SCL6A4 , leading to functionally important differences related to serotonin transporter availability in the synapses. 5-HTTLPR has been implicated in magnitude of negative attentional bias, a causal risk factor for depression, and the modifiability of attentional biases both in positive and negative directions. Hence, this genotype may moderate the outcomes of attention bias modification (ABM) targeted at reducing depressive symptoms. We conducted a registered randomized sham-controlled trial of ABM in a sample of 301 participants with a history of Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) who had residual symptoms. They were randomized and underwent 14 days of two daily session of either ABM or sham at home. Of these, 264 provided genetic samples for determining the functionally important variant of the gene SLC6A4 . We investigated if the SNP ( rs25531 ) moderated the effect of ABM on symptoms of depression (HDRS, BDI-II) and anxiety (BAI), and attention bias post-intervention. None of the outcomes were moderated by the allelic variation in the promoter region of 5-HTTLPR . Limitations include low level of depressive symptoms, lack of data on ethnicity, current and prenatal level of stress, and early traumatic experiences. The 5-HTTLPR polymorphism did not moderate the effect of ABM on the symptom scales, nor attentional bias. Combination or interactions with other genes may be required for prescribing personalized interventions.

• Harrer, Mathias; Sprenger, Antonia A.; Illing, Susan; Adriaanse, Marcel C.; Albert, Steven M. & Allart, Esther [Show all 71 contributors for this article] (2025). Psychological intervention in individuals with subthreshold depression: individual participant data meta-analysis of treatment effects and moderators. British Journal of Psychiatry. ISSN 0007-1250. doi: 10.1192/bjp.2025.56. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Background It remains unclear which individuals with subthreshold depression benefit most from psychological intervention, and what long-term effects this has on symptom deterioration, response and remission. Aims To synthesise psychological intervention benefits in adults with subthreshold depression up to 2 years, and explore participantlevel effect-modifiers. Method Randomised trials comparing psychological intervention with inactive control were identified via systematic search. Authors were contacted to obtain individual participant data (IPD), analysed using Bayesian one-stage meta-analysis. Treatment–covariate interactions were added to examine moderators. Hierarchical-additive models were used to explore treatment benefits conditional on baseline Patient Health Questionnaire 9 (PHQ-9) values. Results IPD of 10 671 individuals (50 studies) could be included. We found significant effects on depressive symptom severity up to 12 months (standardised mean-difference [s.m.d.] = −0.48 to −0.27). Effects could not be ascertained up to 24 months (s.m.d. = −0.18). Similar findings emerged for 50% symptom reduction (relative risk = 1.27–2.79), reliable improvement (relative risk = 1.38–3.17), deterioration (relative risk = 0.67–0.54) and close-to-symptom-free status (relative risk = 1.41–2.80). Among participant-level moderators, only initial depression and anxiety severity were highly credible (P > 0.99). Predicted treatment benefits decreased with lower symptom severity but remained minimally important even for very mild symptoms (s.m.d. = −0.33 for PHQ-9 = 5). Conclusions Psychological intervention reduces the symptom burden in individuals with subthreshold depression up to 1 year, and protects against symptom deterioration. Benefits up to 2 years are less certain. We find strong support for intervention in subthreshold depression, particularly with PHQ-9 scores ≥ 10. For very mild symptoms, scalable treatments could be an attractive option.

• Hagen, Hallvard Solbø; Røssberg, Jan Ivar; Harmer, Catherine; Jonassen, Rune; Landrø, Nils Inge & Bø, Ragnhild (2024). Does rumination moderate the effect of attention bias modification for depressive symptoms? Journal of Affective Disorders Reports. 17. doi: 10.1016/j.jadr.2024.100824. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Background: Current treatment of major depressive disorders still leave many patients with modest improvement. Attention Bias Modification (ABM) is an approach that may serve as an adjuvant therapy for subgroups of pa- tients. We examined whether rumination, often found to be associated with a negative attentional bias, acts as a moderating variable in a computerized ABM procedure in participants with recurrent depression. Methods: A total of 301 patients were randomized to receive either active - or sham ABM twice daily for 14 days. A regression-based moderator analysis was applied to evaluate whether baseline brooding, from the Rumination Response Scale (RRS-B), moderated the effect of ABM on Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS) and Beck Depression Inventory II (BDI-II). Results: There was no significant interaction effect of ABM and RRS-B on HDRS or BDI-II at post-intervention or at 1 month follow-up. In addition, no correlation was found for pre-training attention bias and RRS-B. Limitations: : Generalizability is limited to individuals with non-clinical symptom scores. Conclusions: There was no moderator effect of brooding rumination on clinical depression scales in the largest clinical study on ABM to date.

• Bø, Ragnhild; Kraft, Brage; Skilbrei, August; Jonassen, Rune; Harmer, Catherine & Landrø, Nils Inge (2024). Inhibition moderates the effect of attentional bias modification for reducing residual depressive symptoms: A randomized sham-controlled clinical trial. Journal of Behavior Therapy and Experimental Psychiatry. ISSN 0005-7916. 85(101982). doi: 10.1016/j.jbtep.2024.101982. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Objectives: Residual symptoms represent risk factor for relapse. Attention bias modification (ABM) may reduce clinical and sub-clinical depressive symptoms, indicating that is may be of relevance when preventing relapse. Current evidence suggests that executive functions may moderate the outcome of interventions targeting depressive symptoms. Methods: We assessed inhibition and shifting as indicators of executive functioning by means of the Color-Word Interference Test (i.e., “Stroop task”). These baseline characteristics were investigated as moderator of the effect of ABM on depression symptoms in a double-blinded randomized sham-controlled trial of ABM including patients with a history of recurrent depression (N = 301). Inclusion and follow-ups took place from January 2015 to October 2016. The trial was retrospectively registered #NCT02658682 January 2016. Results: The moderation analysis was based on the interaction term ABM x Stroop. Scaled inhibition scores ≤10.8, but not shifting ability, moderated the effect of ABM compared to sham on clinician-rated depression (HDRS). The difference from the 15th to the 85th percentile of the inhibition score was about 1 HDRS-point, indicating a small effect size. No moderation was found when self-reported depression and AB were the outcome. Post-hoc power calculation indicates risk of Type-II error. Conclusion: When targeting depressive symptoms, ABM seems to be somewhat more effective in patients with weak inhibitory control. This suggests that evaluating the level of inhibition in individual patients could provide some information when making decisions about prescribing ABM to reduce residual symptoms, but the clinical implications of this is uncertain due to an overall small effect size attributable to ABM. Future studies should examine whether inhibitory control still is a relevant moderator when comparing ABM to treatment options other than the sham control condition.

• Kraft, Brage; Bø, Ragnhild; Harmer, Catherine & Landrø, Nils Inge (2024). The effect of attentional bias modification on positive affect dynamics. Scientific Reports. 14(1), p. 23628–23628. doi: 10.1038/s41598-024-74855-x. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Negative attentional bias and alterations in positive affect dynamics constitute emotional vulnerability to depression. Attentional bias modification (ABM) aims to reduce emotional vulnerability to depression by fostering attentional deployment towards positive stimuli. In this randomized controlled trial, we examined whether ABM leads to changes in positive affect dynamics in a sample with an emotional vulnerability to depression (N = 65). Affect dynamics were measured based on experience sampling data gathered 14 days before and after ABM. During ABM, participants paid attention to pairs of emotional faces and responded to dots that were appearing in their place. There was an 87% chance for the dots to appear in place of the relatively more positive face, with the purpose to implicitly foster attentional focus on positive stimuli. In the control condition, there was a 50% chance of the dots to appear in place of the positive stimuli. Results showed that the lag-1 autocorrelation of affect (“inertia”) increased within the ABM group and decreased in the control group, but the findings were not robust and it was unclear whether ABM was the cause. There were no changes in the other affect dynamics indices. Improvements in depression during ABM were not associated with changes in affect dynamics, and affect dynamics post ABM did not predict depression symptoms six months later. In conclusion, the study showed no clear effect of ABM on affect dynamics.

• Skei, Lynn; Skei, Sigmund; Hartshorne, Timothy & Landrø, Nils Inge (2024). Cognitive potential of children and adolescents with CHARGE syndrome and deafblindness. Orphanet Journal of Rare Diseases. 19(1). doi: 10.1186/s13023-024-03222-w. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Background The present study aimed to test the hypothesis stating that the cognitive potential of individuals with deafblindness is equal to those without a deafblind condition, an assumption that until now has been empirically unsubstantiated within the field of deafblindness. Methods To explore the assumption, 15 children and adolescents with CHARGE underwent cognitive assessment with WISC-V using a sequential two-level assessment design. The 1st level involved standardized test conditions. The 2nd level was designed as a continuation of the performances obtained from the 1st level and involved accommodations to compensate for sensory motor impairment. Statistical procedures involved the sample as a whole and when divided into two subgroups: (i) participants with CHARGE without deafblindness; (ii) participants with CHARGE and deafblindness using the 1st level scores as base line. Results Although results showed significantly lower scores in the deafblind subgroup with standardized procedures, they approximated the others after accommodating for their sensory deficits. This positive increase proved significant. Conclusion Findings supported the assumption of equal cognitive potential of individuals with and without deafblindness. Results indicated that the children and adolescents with deafblindness had most effect of the accommodations, enabling them to approximate the results of the subgroup without deafblindness. These gains were attributed enhanced accessibility endorsed by the accommodations and represented the participants latent cognitive dispositions only realized under certain circumstances.

• Ellingjord-Dale, Merete; Nygaard, Anders Benteson; Støer, Nathalie Charlotte; Bø, Ragnhild; Landrø, Nils Inge & Brunvoll, Sonja Hjellegjerde [Show all 14 contributors for this article] (2024). Temporal trajectories of long-COVID symptoms in adults with 22 months follow-up in a prospective cohort study in Norway. International Journal of Infectious Diseases. ISSN 1201-9712. 149, p. 1–8. doi: 10.1016/j.ijid.2024.107263. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Objectives There is a lack of large studies on long-COVID symptoms with symptoms measurements before the onset of COVID-19. Therefore, long-COVID is still poorly defined. Methods The Norwegian COVID-19 Cohort Study is a population-based, open cohort of adult participants (aged 18-96 years) from Norway. From March 27, 2020, participants were recruited through social media, invitations, and nationwide media coverage. Fourteen somatic and cognitive symptoms were assessed at baseline and four follow-ups for up to 22 months. SARS-CoV-2 test status was obtained from a mandatory national registry or from self-report. Results After follow-up, 15 737 participants had a SARS-CoV-2-positive test, 67 305 had a negative test, and 37 563 were still untested. Persistent symptoms reported more frequently by positive compared with negative participants one month after infection, were memory problems (3-6 months: adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 6.8, CI = 5.7-8.1; >18 months: aOR = 9.4, CI = 4.1-22), and concentration problems (3-6 months: aOR = 4.1, CI = 3.5-4.7; >18 months: aOR = 4.4, CI = 2.0-9.7) as well fatigue, dyspnea, anosmia and dysgeusia. Conclusions COVID-19 was associated with cognitive symptoms, anosmia, dysgeusia, dyspnea, and fatigue as well as worsening of overall health up to 22 months after a SARS-CoV-2 test, even when correcting for symptoms before the onset of COVID-19.

• Reiråskag, Marie Aaslie; Brokke, Silje Støle; Rohde, Gudrun Elin; Bertelsen, Thomas Bjerregaard; Landrø, Nils Inge & Haaland, Vegard Øksendal (2024). Decision-making deficits in suicidal acute psychiatric patients: Insights from the Cambridge Gambling Task. Cogent Psychology. 11(1). doi: 10.1080/23311908.2024.2433851. Full text in Research Archive
• Bø, Ragnhild; Kraft, Brage; Jonassen, Rune; Joormann, Jutta; Harmer, Catherine & Landrø, Nils Inge (2024). The effect of ABM on attentional networks and stress-induced emotional reactivity in a mixed clinical sample with depression: A randomized sham-controlled trial. Neuroscience Applied. 3. doi: 10.1016/j.nsa.2024.104091. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Research on the efficacy of Attention Bias Modification for depressive symptoms has predominantly yielded unfavorable outcomes. Despite adhering to rigorous conventions in randomized controlled trials, findings from these studies have indicated minimal effect sizes, thereby raising concerns about their limited clinical significance. This may be attributed to the overlapping mechanisms in ABM and the sham comparator, both affecting attentional processes. Participants with a diagnosis of major depressive disorder, with and without comorbid anxiety (N = 101) were randomized to a two-week preregistered randomized trial of ABM compared to sham. Attentional networks were assessed prior to and after the intervention by the Attention Network Task (ANT), and emotional reactivity was assessed in response to a lab-stressor. Irrespective of condition, participants improved their performance on the alerting and executive attentional networks, but not orienting, and stress-induced emotional reactivity was marginally decreased. Changes in attentional networks predicted post-intervention depression scores. It is imperative to reconsider the employment of a sham comparator in the exploration of the clinical efficacy of ABM.

• 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.

• Bø, Ragnhild; Kraft, Brage; Joormann, Jutta; Jonassen, Rune; Harmer, Catherine & Landrø, Nils Inge (2023). Cognitive predictors of stress-induced mood malleability in depression. Anxiety, Stress, & Coping. ISSN 1061-5806. 37(2), p. 278–292. doi: 10.1080/10615806.2023.2255531. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Background & objectives: Basic attentional control, negative biases in attention and interpretation, and rumination are all cognitive processes associated with depression; however, less is known about their predictive role in depressive mood reactivity and -recovery in response to stress, and their relation to severity of depression. Design & methods: We experimentally induced stress based on an autobiographical imagery script in a sample of 92 participants with Major Depressive Disorder with or without comorbid anxiety disorders. We used simple regression analysis for investigating the roles of state- and trait rumination, attentional networks, and attentional and interpretation biases for predicting stress-induced depressive mood reactivity and -recovery, respectively, and whether they in parallel mediated the association between cognitive processes and depression severity. Results: Stress-induced depressive mood reactivity was predicted by better orienting ability and more state rumination. Better recovery was predicted by better orienting efficiency and lower negative interpretation bias. Furthermore, the relation between state rumination and depression severity was partially mediated by depressive mood reactivity, however limited by the lack of temporal precedence in the analysis. Conclusions: We characterized the relation between cognitive processes and mood malleability in response to stress. Findings could refine theoretical models of depression if causality is established.

• Kraft, Brage; Bø, Ragnhild; Jonassen, Rune; Heeren, Alexandre; Ulset, Vidar Sandsaunet & Stiles, Tore Charles [Show all 7 contributors for this article] (2023). The association between depression symptoms and reduced executive functioning is primarily linked by fatigue. Psychiatry Research Communications. 3(2), p. 1–9. doi: 10.1016/j.psycom.2023.100120. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Depression is associated with reduced executive functioning. Still, we lack a more detailed understanding of the factors explaining this association. Addressing several limitations in the previous literature, we examine whether poor executive functioning is associated with specific depression symptoms using a network approach. The sample consisted of currently depressed, previously depressed, and never-depressed individuals (n ​= ​289; 67% female; M age ​= ​37.4 years). Associations between poor executive functioning and nine depression symptoms were estimated using regularized Gaussian graphical modelling. Results showed associations between poor executive functioning and fatigue/energy loss, interest/pleasure loss, appetite changes, sleep problems, and concentration difficulties. Fatigue/energy loss was the most important symptom bridging depression with poor executive functioning. There were no direct associations between executive functions and core negative affect symptoms. Findings are discussed in the context of motivational impairments, and potential mechanisms such as immunological- and stress-related processes are considered.

• Bø, Ragnhild; Kraft, Brage; Pedersen, Mads Lund; Joormann, Jutta; Jonassen, Rune & Osnes, Kåre [Show all 8 contributors for this article] (2023). The effect of attention bias modification on depressive symptoms in a comorbid sample: a randomized controlled trial. Psychological Medicine. ISSN 0033-2917. 53(13), p. 6389–6396. doi: 10.1017/S0033291722003956. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Background Studies investigating the long-term effect of attention bias modification (ABM) in clinical samples are lacking. This study investigates the 6-months follow-up effect of ABM on depressive symptoms in participant with major depressive disorder with and without comorbid disorders. Methods We conducted a double-blind randomized sham-controlled trial in 101 participants between 19 November 2019, and 17 August 2021. Follow-up ended 3 April 2022. Participants were allocated to ABM or sham condition twice daily for 14 consecutive days. Primary outcomes were the total score on the Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II) at 6 months, mean Brief State Rumination Inventory (BSRI) score post-treatment and reduction in BSRI post-treatment. Secondary outcome was change in attentional bias (AB). The trial was preregistered in ClinicalTrials.gov (#NCT 04137367). Results A total of 118 patients aged 18–65 years were assessed for eligibility, and 101 were randomized and subjected to intention-to-treat analyses. At 6 months, ABM had no effect on depression and anxiety compared to a sham condition. While rumination decreased during the intervention, there was no effect of condition on rumination and AB. Predictor analysis did not reveal differences between participants with ongoing major depressive episode or comorbid anxiety. Conclusion Compared to sham training, there was no effect of ABM on depressive symptoms at 6-months follow-up. Since the intervention failed at modifying AB, it is unclear whether changes in AB are related to long-term outcomes.

• Skei, Lynn; Skei, Sigmund; Tetzchner, Stephen von; Hartshorne, Timothy & Landrø, Nils Inge (2023). The assessment and diagnosis of intellectual disability when development is atypical. A Norwegian population study of individuals with CHARGE syndrome. International Journal of Neuroscience. ISSN 0020-7454. doi: 10.1080/00207454.2023.2240485. Full text in Research Archive
• Skei, Lynn; Tetzchner, Stephen von; Hartshorne, Timothy; Skei, Sigmund & Landrø, Nils Inge (2023). Executive Functions in a Population of Individuals with CHARGE Syndrome: Findings from Performance-Based and Rating Scale Measures According to a 3-Factor Model. Developmental Neurorehabilitation. ISSN 1751-8423. doi: 10.1080/17518423.2023.2242942. Full text in Research Archive
• Bø, Ragnhild; Kraft, Brage; Jonassen, Rune; Pedersen, Mads Lund; Harmer, Catherine & Landrø, Nils Inge (2023). The long-term effects of ABM on symptom severity in patients with recurrent depression: A randomized sham-controlled trial. Journal of Affective Disorders. ISSN 0165-0327. 340, p. 886–892. doi: 10.1016/j.jad.2023.08.024. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Background: The present study reports on long-term outcomes of ABM over one year in self-reported and clinician-rated depression symptoms, anxiety symptoms, and relapse rates. Methods: We conducted a double-blind randomized sham-controlled trial in 301 participants with recurrent major depression disorder between January 2015 and October 2016 (#NCT02658682). Participants were allo- cated to ABM or sham condition twice daily for 14 consecutive days. Long-term effects of ABM were assessed by BDI-II, HDRS and BAI at one-, six-, and 12-months follow-up. Relapse rates at 12-months follow-up were also assessed. Results: There was no long-term effect of ABM (as compared to sham) on clinician-rated depression symptoms, on anxiety symptoms, nor in relapse rates. By 12 months follow-up, there was a small effect on self-reported depression favoring ABM over sham. Limitations: The lack of an assessment-only condition hinders comparison to natural trajectories of depression symptoms. Conclusions: The overall long-term effect of ABM was limited, and currently there is no convincing evidence for implementing this as a viable treatment option in clinical populations. We speculate if the sham condition should be replaced by another control condition when investigating the clinical utility of ABM.

• Kraft, Brage; Bø, Ragnhild; Hoorelbeke, Kristof; Koster, Ernst; Jonassen, Rune & Harmer, Catherine [Show all 7 contributors for this article] (2023). Examining attentional functioning in depression using a personalized network approach: A proof-of-principle study. Psychiatry Research Communications. 3(3). doi: 10.1016/j.psycom.2023.100137. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Reduced attentional functioning has been identified as an important factor in depression etiology and mainte- nance. However, current research does not fully take into account the large heterogeneity of depression, for example identifying for whom and how reduced attentional functioning plays a role. In this proof-of-principle study, we demonstrate how a personalized network approach can provide more nuanced insight into the role of attentional functioning in depression. To this end, we estimated person-specific symptom networks in a depression sample, and explored associations between reduced attentional functioning (alerting, orienting, ex- ecutive control) and symptom centrality (expected influence). Participants with ongoing and remitted depression were enrolled to 14 days of intensive assessment of depression symptoms in their daily life using a smartphone app. Based on these data, person-specific network models were estimated using vector autoregression modelling. Orienting, alerting and executive control were assessed using the Attentional Network Test in the laboratory. Person-specific networks showed large variability in symptom dynamics. Higher centrality of fatigue was asso- ciated with reduced orienting efficiency, and higher centrality of passivity was associated with reduced executive control. This study highlights the potential of assessing individual symptom dynamics when considering cognitive functioning in depression.

• Lopez-Fernandez, Olatz; Romo, Lucia; Kern, Laurence; Rousseau, Amélie; Lelonek-Kuleta, Bernadeta & Chwaszcz, Joanna [Show all 23 contributors for this article] (2023). Problematic Internet Use among Adults: A Cross-Cultural Study in 15 Countries. Journal of Clinical Medicine. 12(3). doi: 10.3390/jcm12031027. Full text in Research Archive
• Patel, Yash; Shin, Jean; Abé, Christoph; Agartz, Ingrid; Alloza, Clara & Alnæs, Dag [Show all 51 contributors for this article] (2022). Virtual Ontogeny of Cortical Growth Preceding Mental Illness. Biological Psychiatry. ISSN 0006-3223. 92(4), p. 299–313. doi: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2022.02.959. Full text in Research Archive
• Brokke, Silje Støle; Bertelsen, Thomas Bjerregaard; Landrø, Nils Inge & Haaland, Vegard Øksendal (2022). The effect of sexual abuse and dissociation on suicide attempt. BMC Psychiatry. 22(1). doi: 10.1186/s12888-021-03662-9. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Background Suicide attempt is the most predictive risk factor of suicide. Trauma – especially sexual abuse – is a risk factor for suicide attempt and suicide. A common reaction to sexual abuse is dissociation. Higher levels of dissociation are linked to self-harm, suicide ideation, and suicide attempt, but the role of dissociation in suicidal behavior is unclear. Methods In this naturalistic study, ninety-seven acute psychiatric patients with suicidal ideation, of whom 32 had experienced sexual abuse, were included. Suicidal behaviour was assessed with The Columbia suicide history form (CSHF). The Brief trauma questionnaire (BTQ) was used to identify sexual abuse. Dissociative symptoms were assessed with Dissociative experiences scale (DES). Results Patients who had experienced sexual abuse reported higher levels of dissociation and were younger at onset of suicidal thoughts, more likely to self-harm, and more likely to have attempted suicide; and they had made more suicide attempts. Mediation analysis found dissociative experiences to significantly mediate a substantive proportion of the relationship between sexual abuse and number of suicide attempts (indirect effects = 0.17, 95% CI = 0.05, 0.28, proportion mediated = 68%). Dissociative experiences significantly mediated the role of sexual abuse as a predictor of being in the patient group with more than four suicide attempts (indirect effects = 0.11, 95% CI = 0.02, 0.19, proportion mediated = 34%). Conclusion The results illustrate the importance of assessment and treatment of sexual abuse and trauma-related symptoms such as dissociation in suicide prevention. Dissociation can be a contributing factor to why some people act on their suicidal thoughts.

• Brokke, Silje Støle; Landrø, Nils Inge & Haaland, Vegard Øksendal (2022). Impulsivity and aggression in suicide ideators and suicide attempters of high and low lethality. BMC Psychiatry. 22(1). doi: 10.1186/s12888-022-04398-w. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Background Impulsivity and aggression have been associated with all forms of suicidal behaviour and linked to theories of suicide capability. There is a need to clarify the role of impulsivity and aggression in the progression from suicidal thoughts to suicide attempts and suicide. Method In this naturalistic cross-sectional study, suicide ideators (35), low lethal suicide attempters (37), and high lethal suicide attempters (26) were compared with the Columbia-suicide severity rating scale (C-SSRS), Barratt impulsiveness scale (BIS-11), and the Buss & Perry aggression questionnaire (AQ). Results Physical aggression score (p = 0.032) contributed to the difference between predicted low lethal suicide attempt and predicted high lethal suicide attempt. This model predicting physical aggression showed a fairly weak positive relationship (OR = 1.1) to high lethal attempt and explained 13% of the variance so there is a need for further replications to verify these results. Impulsive behaviour scores in females were significantly higher in the low lethal suicide attempt group compared to suicide ideators (F(2.51) = 3.47, p = 0.039, η²= 0.12). Hostility aggression in females was significantly higher in the high lethal suicide attempters compared to suicide ideators (F(2.52) = 3.53, p = 0.037, η² = 0.12). Physical aggression scores in females were significantly higher in the high lethal attempters compared to suicide ideators (F(2.52) = 6.79, p = 0.002, η²= 0.21). When these analyses were conducted without the participants who died in suicide, men in the high lethal attempt group scored significantly higher than men in the low lethal attempt group (F(2.37) = 3.8, p = 0.031, η² = 0.17), but men did not differ in aggression and impulsivity scores in other comparisons. Conclusion Suicide prevention should address physical aggression, as high levels can be associated with high lethal attempts. Assessment of suicidal patients should address impulsive behaviour with the insight that it can be more prominent in female low lethal suicide attempters. It could be that assessment and treatment of suicidal patients should be tailored differently for men and women. Aggression as a feature of suicide capability could be the link that makes suicide possible.

• Lopez-Fernandez, Olatz; Romo, Lucia; Kern, Laurence; Rousseau, Amélie; Graziani, Pierluigi & Rochat, Lucien [Show all 15 contributors for this article] (2022). Perceptions Underlying Addictive Technology Use Patterns: Insights for Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health (IJERPH). ISSN 1661-7827. 19(1). doi: 10.3390/ijerph19010544. Full text in Research Archive
• Ulleberg, Pål; Berge, Torkil; Lending, Hilde Dallavara; Skule, Cecilie & Landrø, Nils Inge (2021). Is perceived control of depression related to therapy outcome for depression? A longitudinal study. Journal of Psychiatric Research. ISSN 0022-3956. 140, p. 504–511. doi: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2021.06.025. Full text in Research Archive
• 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.

• Bø, Ragnhild; Kraft, Brage; Jonassen, Rune; Harmer, Catherine; Hilland, Eva & Stiles, Tore C [Show all 10 contributors for this article] (2021). Symptom severity moderates the outcome of attention bias modification for depression: An exploratory study. Journal of Psychiatric Research. ISSN 0022-3956. 138, p. 528–534. doi: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2021.04.027. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  A recent meta-analysis has questioned the relevance of attention bias modification (ABM) for depression outcomes. However, there might be patient characteristics not yet accounted for, that are relevant to the outcome. In the context of personalized treatment, the lack of moderator studies have limited the potential for matching ABM-treatment to individual patient characteristics. Subjects (N = 301) were randomly assigned 1:1 to receive either active or placebo Attention Bias Modification (ABM) twice daily for 14 days in a double-blind design (placebo n = 148; ABM n = 153). The outcome was change in symptoms based on the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS). Moderator variables were self-reported depression (Beck Depression Inventory-II; BDI-II), anxiety (Beck Anxiety Inventory; BAI) and attentional bias (AB) assessed at baseline. This trial was registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, number NCT02658682. Only BAI (p for interaction = .01, Bootstrap 95% CI [0.046, 0.337]) moderated the effects of ABM on change in clinician rated depressive symptoms. Interactions were significant for BAI scores ≥8. The relative effect of the intervention increased with the highest symptom load. ABM was not effective in patients with the lowest symptom load. Future research should validate this finding and continue investigating moderators of the ABM-intervention to further enhance personalization of treatment to individual symptom characteristics.

• Søraas, Arne Vasli; Bø, Ragnhild; Kalleberg, Karl Trygve; Støer, Nathalie Charlotte; Ellingjord-Dale, Merete & Landrø, Nils Inge (2021). Self-reported Memory Problems 8 Months After COVID-19 Infection. JAMA Network Open. 4(7). doi: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2021.18717. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  COVID-19 is an airway disease that also affects the nervous system.1 Therefore, neurological and neurocognitive symptoms may be a part of the postacute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC) syndrome. PASC may be found to affect a high proportion of people who had mild cases of COVID-19, and there is an urgent need for a detailed description of PASC in nonhospitalized patients.2,3 This cohort study examines self-reported memory problems 8 months after COVID-19 infection.

• Jacobsen, Henrik Børsting; Stiles, Tore C; Stubhaug, Audun; Landrø, Nils Inge & Hansson, Per (2021). Comparing objective cognitive impairments in patients with peripheral neuropathic pain or fibromyalgia. Scientific Reports. 11. doi: 10.1038/s41598-020-80740-0. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Existing studies on cognitive impairments in chronic pain do not investigate peripheral neuropathic pain (PNP) or compare pain conditions in a satisfactory manner. Here we aimed to compare executive dysfunctions in PNP patients with fibromyalgia (FM) and healthy controls (HC). Patients who self-reported cognitive impairments were assessed according to criteria for PNP or FM. Seventy-three patients met criteria and completed testing on executive functioning and IQ measures. We also included twenty matched healthy controls. Regression models controlling for age, sex and IQ, tested associations between group category (PNP, FM or HC) and outcomes. If a substantial association was detected, we followed up with head-to-head comparisons between PNP and FM. Multivariate regression models then tested associations between executive functioning and pain type, controlling for significant confounders. Results from head-to-head comparison between pain conditions showed significant differences on years lived with pain (FM > PNP), the use of anticonvulsants (PNP > FM) and use of analgesics (PNP > FM). When controlled for all significant differences, PNP patients had significantly lower scores on an attention-demanding cued-recall task compared to FM. Poor performance on attention-demanding cued-recall task was associated with PNP, which translate into problems with retaining fast-pace or advanced information.

• Østergaard, Tom; Lundgren, Tobias; Zettle, Robert; Landrø, Nils Inge & Haaland, Vegard Øksendal (2020). Norwegian Acceptance and Action Questionnaire (NAAQ): A psychometric evaluation. Journal of Contextual Behavioral Science. ISSN 2212-1447. 15, p. 103–109. doi: 10.1016/j.jcbs.2019.12.002. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  The Acceptance and Action Questionnaire (AAQ-II) aims to measure psychological flexibility (PF), described as the ability to act according to chosen values while consciously being in contact with present moment experiences that might function as obstacles. To date, the psychometric properties of a Norwegian translated version of the AAQ-II (NAAQ) have not been published, thus limiting the confidence of findings based on its use with Norwegian samples. The current study sought to address this omission by evaluating the psychometric properties of the NAAQ in a clinical sample (N = 163) with a history of major depressive disorder and residual symptoms of depression. A confirmatory factor analysis supported a unidimensional structure of the scale with good internal (α = 0.87) and satisfactory levels of concurrent and convergent validity. Incremental validity beyond two measures of value-based living was found in predicting depression, anxiety, and three of four domains reflective of quality of life. The overall results support the use of the NAAQ in both research and clinical practice with Norwegian samples.

• Østergaard, Tom; Lundgren, Tobias; Zettle, Robert; Landrø, Nils Inge & Haaland, Vegard Øksendal (2020). Psychological Flexibility in Depression Relapse Prevention: Processes of Change and Positive Mental Health in Group-Based ACT for Residual Symptoms. Frontiers in Psychology. 11. doi: 10.3389/fpsyg.2020.00528. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Relapse rates following a depressive episode are high, with limited treatments available aimed at reducing such risk. Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) is a cognitive-behavioral approach that has gained increased empirical support in treatment of depression, and thus represents an alternative in relapse prevention. Psychological flexibility (PF) plays an important role in mental health according to the model on which ACT is based. This study aimed to investigate the role of PF and its subprocesses in reducing residual symptoms of depression and in improving positive mental health following an 8-week group-based ACT treatment. Adult participants (75.7% female) with a history of depression, but currently exhibiting residual symptoms (N = 106) completed measures before and after intervention, and at 6 and 12-month follow-up. A growth curve model showed that positive mental health increased over 12-months. Multilevel mediation modeling revealed that PF significantly mediated these changes as well as the reduction of depressive symptoms, and that processes of acceptance, cognitive defusion, values and committed action, in turn, mediated increased PF.

• Hilland, Eva; Landrø, Nils Inge; Kraft, Brage; Tamnes, Christian Krog; Fried, Eiko I. & Maglanoc, Luigi Angelo [Show all 7 contributors for this article] (2020). Exploring the Links between Specific Depression Symptoms and Brain Structure: A Network Study. Psychiatry and Clinical Neurosciences. ISSN 1323-1316. 74, p. 220–221. doi: 10.1111/pcn.12969. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Understanding the neural substrates of specific symptoms may provide important information about mechanisms underlying depression vulnerability. A growing body of research under the umbrella term ‘network approach’ has recently received considerable attention[5]; the approach understands and aims to model mental disorders as systems of causally interacting symptoms. So far, network studies have been based on symptoms and environmental factors, ignoring relevant neurobiological factors[6]. Here, we address this knowledge gap by modelling a joint network of depression-related brain structures and individual depression symptoms, using 21 symptoms and five regional brain measures. The sample is a mixed group of individuals that previously have been treated for one or more major depressive episodes (MDE) and never depressed individuals, with the goal to model a continuum of depression severity. Hippocampus was negatively associated with changes in appetite and sadness, and positively associated with loss of interest and irritability. Insula was negatively associated with loss of interest in sex and sadness. Cingulate had a negative association with sadness, and positive associations with crying and worthlessness. Fusiform gyrus had positive associations with crying and irritability.

• Hagen, Bjørn Ole Ingulfsvann; Lau, Bjørn; Joormann, Jutta; Småstuen, Milada Cvancarova; Landrø, Nils Inge & Stubberud, Jan (2020). Goal management training as a cognitive remediation intervention in depression: A randomized controlled trial. Journal of Affective Disorders. ISSN 0165-0327. doi: 10.1016/j.jad.2020.07.015. Full text in Research Archive
• Brokke, Silje Støle; Landrø, Nils Inge & Haaland, Vegard Øksendal (2020). Cognitive control in suicide ideators and suicide attempters. Frontiers in Psychology. doi: 10.3389/fpsyg.2020.595673. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  There is a need to understand more of the risk factors involved in the process from suicide ideation to suicide attempt. Cognitive control processes may be important factors in assessing vulnerability to suicide. A version of the Stroop procedure, Delis–Kaplan Executive Function System (D-KEFS) Color–Word Interference Test (CWIT) and Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function (BRIEF-A) were used in this study to test attention control and cognitive shift, as well as to assess everyday executive function of 98 acute suicidal psychiatric patients. The Columbia Suicide History Form (CSHF) was used to identify a group of suicide ideators and suicide attempters. Results showed that suicide attempters scored lower on attention control than suicide ideators who had no history of attempted suicide. The self-report in the BRIEF-A inventory did not reflect any cognitive differences between suicide ideators and suicide attempters. A logistic regression analysis showed that a poorer attention control score was associated with the suicide attempt group, whereas a poorer cognitive shift score was associated with the suicide ideation group. The results found in this study suggest that suicide attempters may struggle with control of attention or inhibiting competing responses but not with cognitive flexibility.

• Hagen, Bjørn Ole Ingulfsvann; Landrø, Nils Inge; Lau, Bjørn; Koster, Ernst & Stubberud, Jan (2020). Predictors of long-term improvement following cognitive remediation in a sample with elevated depressive symptoms. Frontiers in Psychology. 11:2232, p. 1–11. doi: 10.3389/fpsyg.2020.02232. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Objective: Cognitive remediation (CR) techniques (interventions to enhance cognitive functioning) have proven moderately effective in improving cognition and daily functioning in major depressive disorder (MDD). However, baseline predictors of treatment response are lacking. The present study aimed to identify factors influencing long-term CR outcomes in a sample with current or previous, mild or moderate MDD and with self-reported cognitive deficits. Methods: Forty-two completers of group-based CR (strategy learning or drill-and-practice), were pooled into one sample. Based on change scores from baseline to 6-month follow-up, participants were categorized as “improvers” or “non-improvers” using reliable change index calculations. Measures included a questionnaire of everyday executive functioning and a neuropsychological test of attention. Finally, improvers and non-improvers were compared in terms of various sociodemographic, psychological, illness-related, and neuropsychological baseline variables. Results: Seventeen participants improved reliably in everyday executive functioning, and fourteen demonstrated a reliable improvement in attention. No statistically significant differences emerged between improvers and non-improvers. Conclusion: No major predictors of CR were identified. Importantly, the current findings are insufficient to guide clinical decision-making. Large-scale studies with a priori hypotheses are needed to make advances in the future.

• Elvsåshagen, Torbjørn; Bahrami, Shahram; Meer, Dennis van der; Agartz, Ingrid; Alnæs, Dag & Barch, Deanna M. [Show all 76 contributors for this article] (2020). The genetic architecture of human brainstem structures and their involvement in common brain disorders. Nature Communications. 11. doi: 10.1038/s41467-020-17376-1. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Brainstem regions support vital bodily functions, yet their genetic architectures and involvement in common brain disorders remain understudied. Here, using imaging-genetics data from a discovery sample of 27,034 individuals, we identify 45 brainstem-associated genetic loci, including the first linked to midbrain, pons, and medulla oblongata volumes, and map them to 305 genes. In a replication sample of 7432 participants most of the loci show the same effect direction and are significant at a nominal threshold. We detect genetic overlap between brainstem volumes and eight psychiatric and neurological disorders. In additional clinical data from 5062 individuals with common brain disorders and 11,257 healthy controls, we observe differential volume alterations in schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, multiple sclerosis, mild cognitive impairment, dementia, and Parkinson’s disease, supporting the relevance of brainstem regions and their genetic architectures in common brain disorders.

• Jacobsen, Henrik Børsting; Klungsøyr, Ole; Landrø, Nils Inge; Stiles, Tore C & Roche, Bryan T (2020). MINDFLEX Training for Cognitive Flexibility in Chronic Pain: A Randomized, Controlled Cross-Over Trial. Frontiers in Psychology. 11. doi: 10.3389/fpsyg.2020.604832. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Impairments in executive functioning are prevalent in chronic pain conditions, with cognitive inflexibility being the most frequently reported. The current randomized, cross-over trial, piloted a computerized cognitive training (CCT) program based on Relational Frame Theory, targeting improvement in cognitive flexibility. At baseline, 73 chronic pain patients completed testing on pre-selected outcomes of executive functioning, alongside IQ measures. When tested three times over the course of 5 months, there was a drop-out rate of 40% at the third time point, leaving 44 patients who had data at all time points. The results showed that there was a substantial learning effect from the MINDFLEX training and a substantial time-dependent improvement on the primary outcomes of increased flexibility, but that this could not be tied to active training. In conclusion, this small study indicated a learning effect as well as improvement on primary outcomes. Based on the current results, a larger trial with improved feasibility of training is warranted.

• Lianne, Schmaal; Pozzi, Elena; Ho, Tiffany C; Velzen, Laura S van; Veer, Ilya M & Opel, Nils [Show all 78 contributors for this article] (2020). ENIGMA MDD: seven years of global neuroimaging studies of major depression through worldwide data sharing. Translational Psychiatry. 10(1), p. 1–19. doi: 10.1038/s41398-020-0842-6. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  A key objective in the field of translational psychiatry over the past few decades has been to identify the brain correlates of major depressive disorder (MDD). Identifying measurable indicators of brain processes associated with MDD could facilitate the detection of individuals at risk, and the development of novel treatments, the monitoring of treatment effects, and predicting who might benefit most from treatments that target specific brain mechanisms. However, despite intensive neuroimaging research towards this effort, underpowered studies and a lack of reproducible findings have hindered progress. Here, we discuss the work of the ENIGMA Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) Consortium, which was established to address issues of poor replication, unreliable results, and overestimation of effect sizes in previous studies. The ENIGMA MDD Consortium currently includes data from 45 MDD study cohorts from 14 countries across six continents. The primary aim of ENIGMA MDD is to identify structural and functional brain alterations associated with MDD that can be reliably detected and replicated across cohorts worldwide. A secondary goal is to investigate how demographic, genetic, clinical, psychological, and environmental factors affect these associations. In this review, we summarize findings of the ENIGMA MDD disease working group to date and discuss future directions. We also highlight the challenges and benefits of large-scale data sharing for mental health research.

• Patel, Yash; Parker, Nadine; Shin, Jean; Howard, Derek; French, Leon & Thomopoulos, Sophia I. [Show all 299 contributors for this article] (2020). Virtual Histology of Cortical Thickness and Shared Neurobiology in 6 Psychiatric Disorders. JAMA psychiatry. ISSN 2168-6238. 78(1), p. 47–63. doi: 10.1001/jamapsychiatry.2020.2694. Full text in Research Archive
• Ryberg, Wenche; Zahl, Per Henrik; Diep, Lien My; Landrø, Nils Inge & Fosse, Roar (2019). Managing suicidality within specialized care: A randomized controlled trial. Journal of Affective Disorders. ISSN 0165-0327. 249, p. 112–120. doi: 10.1016/j.jad.2019.02.022. Full text in Research Archive
• Kraft, Brage; Jonassen, Rune; Ulset, Vidar; Stiles, Tore C & Landrø, Nils Inge (2019). A Prospective Test of the Metacognitive Model of Depression in Previously Depressed Individuals. Cognitive Therapy and Research. ISSN 0147-5916. 43(3), p. 603–610. doi: 10.1007/s10608-018-9972-z. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Metacognitive theory proposes that depression is caused by excessive rumination, which is in turn maintained by maladaptive positive and negative beliefs about rumination (“metacognitions”) and reduced executive control. Moreover, the metacognitive model asserts that metacognitions are maintained by prolonged depression symptoms. However, no studies have tested the metacognitive model of depression prospectively in a clinical population. Currently remitted adults with recurrent depressive disorder (N = 105) reported depression symptoms at five time points over a 12-month period. Based on this data, we used latent growth modelling to estimate depression levels and symptom trajectories. Positive metacognitions were associated with rumination, while negative metacognitions and rumination predicted higher depression levels, but not symptom recurrence. Moreover, depression levels and symptom recurrence predicted positive and negative metacognitions, as well as rumination. There was no association between metacognitions and reduced executive control. The present study lends partial support for the metacognitive model, but raises questions of the relevance of metacognitions as a proximal vulnerability marker for symptom recurrence.

• Hilland, Eva; Landrø, Nils Inge; Harmer, Catherine; Browning, Michael; Maglanoc, Luigi Angelo & Jonassen, Rune (2019). Attentional bias modification is associated with fMRI response toward negative stimuli in individuals with residual depression: a randomized controlled trial. Journal of Psychiatry & Neuroscience. ISSN 1180-4882. doi: 10.1503/jpn.180118. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Background: Attentional bias modification (ABM) may lead to more adaptive emotion perception and emotion regulation. Understanding the neural basis of these effects may lead to greater precision for the development of future treatments. Task-related functional MRI (fMRI) after ABM training has not been investigated in depression so far. The main aim of this randomized controlled trial was to explore differences in brain activity after ABM training, in response to emotional stimuli. Methods: A total of 134 people with previous depression, who had been treated for depression and had various degrees of residual symptoms, were randomized to 14 days of active ABM or a closely matched placebo training, followed by an fMRI emotion regulation task. The training procedure was a classical dot–probe task with emotional face stimuli. In the active ABM condition, the probes replaced the more positively valenced face of a given pair. As participants implicitly learned to predict the probe location, this would be likely to induce a more positive attentional bias. The placebo condition was identical, except for the contingency of the probe, which appeared equally behind positive and negative stimuli. We compared depression symptoms and subjective ratings of perceived negativity during fMRI between the training groups. We explored brain activation in predefined regions of interest and across the whole brain. We explored activation in areas associated with changes in attentional bias and degree of depression. Results: Compared with the placebo group, the ABM group showed reduced activation in the amygdala and the anterior cingulate cortex when passively viewing negative images. We found no group differences in predefined regions of interest associated with emotion regulation strategies. Response in the temporal cortices was associated with the degree of change in attentional bias and the degree of depressive symptoms in ABM versus placebo. Limitations: These findings should be replicated in other samples of patients with depression, and in studies using fMRI designs that allow analyses of within-group variability from baseline to follow-up. Conclusion: Attentional bias modification training has an effect on brain function in the circuitry associated with emotional appraisal and the generation of affective states. Clinicaltrials.gov identifier: NCT02931487.

• Hilland, Eva; Landrø, Nils Inge; Harmer, Catherine; Browning, Michael; Maglanoc, Luigi Angelo & Jonassen, Rune (2019). Attentional bias modification is associated with fMRI response toward negative stimuli in individuals with residual depression: a randomized controlled trial. Journal of Psychiatry & Neuroscience. ISSN 1180-4882. 45(1), p. 23–33. doi: 10.1503/jpn.180118. Full text in Research Archive
• Lopez-Fernandez, Olatz; Griffiths, Mark D.; Kuss, Daria J.; Dawes, Christopher; Pontes, Halley M. & Justice, Lucy [Show all 34 contributors for this article] (2019). Cross-cultural validation of the compulsive internet use scale in four forms and eight languages. CyberPsychology, Behavior and Social Networking. ISSN 2152-2715. 22(7), p. 451–464. doi: 10.1089/cyber.2018.0731. Full text in Research Archive
• Ryum, Truls; Jacobsen, Henrik Børsting; Borchgrevink, Petter Chr.; Landrø, Nils Inge & Stiles, Tore C (2019). Interpersonal problems as a predictor of pain catastrophizing in patients with chronic pain. Scandinavian Journal of Pain. ISSN 1877-8860. p. 51–59. doi: 10.1515/sjpain-2019-0064. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Background and aims Pain catastrophizing has consistently been related to a variety of negative outcomes within chronic pain conditions, but competing models exist explaining the role of catastrophizing. According to the fear-avoidance model (FAM), catastrophizing is primarily related to the appraisal of pain (i.e. “intrapersonal”), whereas the communal coping model (CCM) suggests that catastrophizing is a strategy to elicit support (i.e. “interpersonal”). In order to examine the interpersonal nature of catastrophizing, this cross-sectional study examined interpersonal problems as a predictor of pain catastrophizing in a sample of patients (n = 97) with chronic pain. Methods Self-report data was taken from patients entering a multidisciplinary, inpatient rehabilitation program. The four quadrants of the Inventory of Interpersonal Problems circumplex model (Hostile-Dominant, Hostile-Submissive, Friendly-Submissive, Friendly-Dominant) were used as predictors of pain catastrophizing in a series of separate, hierarchical regression analyses. Results After controlling for relevant confounding variables such as demographics (gender, age), pain severity, psychiatric symptoms (anxiety/depression, fatigue, insomnia), adverse life experiences and perceived social support, higher levels of Hostile-Dominant interpersonal problems predicted higher levels of pain catastrophizing (p ≤ 0.01, d = 0.56). Conclusions The results add support to the notion that pain catastrophizing may serve a communicative functioning, as predicted by the CCM, with cold, dominant and controlling behaviors as a maladaptive interpersonal strategy to elicit support. It may thus be useful to consider the broader interpersonal context of the individual, and not only the patient’s appraisal of pain, when conceptualizing the role of pain catastrophizing in patients with chronic pain. Implications Future psychosocial research and treatment of chronic pain could be informed by including interpersonal theory as a useful theoretical framework, which may help shed more light on how interpersonal problems relates to pain catastrophizing.

• Maglanoc, Luigi Angelo; Kaufmann, Tobias; Meer, Dennis van der; Marquand, André F.; Wolfers, Thomas & Jonassen, Rune [Show all 10 contributors for this article] (2019). Predicting cognitive and mental health traits and their polygenic architecture using large-scale brain connectomics. Nature Neuroscience. ISSN 1097-6256. doi: 10.1101/609586. Full text in Research Archive
• Kraft, Brage; Jonassen, Rune; Heeren, Alexandre; Harmer, Catherine; Stiles, Tore C & Landrø, Nils Inge (2019). Attention Bias Modification in Remitted Depression Is Associated With Increased Interest and Leads to Reduced Adverse Impact of Anxiety Symptoms and Negative Cognition. Clinical Psychological Science. ISSN 2167-7026. 7(3), p. 530–544. doi: 10.1177/2167702618822480. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Using a computational network approach, we reanalyzed data from a randomized controlled trial of attention bias modification (ABM) tasks on residual depression symptoms. The main aim was to characterize the symptom-to-symptom changes following ABM. ABM was associated with improvements in interest, which was in turn associated with improvements in other depression symptoms. Although there were no changes in the global network strength following ABM, the comparison with symptom change in the ABM and control group suggests that ABM leads to a reduction of the association between anxiety, depressed mood, and guilt. Findings suggest that reduction in depression symptoms following ABM may have been set in motion by increased interest and involvement in everyday activities, leading to a reduction of the adverse impact of anxiety and negative cognition. ABM may be more effective in patients in whom these symptoms are prominent.

• Jonassen, Rune; Harmer, Catherine; Hilland, Eva; Maglanoc, Luigi Angelo; Kraft, Brage & Browning, Michael [Show all 10 contributors for this article] (2019). Effects of Attentional Bias Modification on residual symptoms in depression: A randomized controlled trial. BMC Psychiatry. 19(141). doi: 10.1186/s12888-019-2105-8. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Background Following treatment, many depressed patients have significant residual symptoms. However, large randomised controlled trials (RCT) in this population are lacking. When Attention bias modification training (ABM) leads to more positive emotional biases, associated changes in clinical symptoms have been reported. A broader and more transparent picture of the true advantage of ABM based on larger and more stringent clinical trials have been requested. The current study evaluates the early effect of two weeks ABM training on blinded clinician-rated and self-reported residual symptoms, and whether changes towards more positive attentional biases (AB) would be associated with symptom reduction. Method A total of 321 patients with a history of depression were included in a preregistered randomized controlled double-blinded trial. Patients were randomised to an emotional ABM paradigm over fourteen days or a closely matched control condition. Symptoms based on the Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression (HRSD) and Beck Depression Inventory II (BDI-II) were obtained at baseline and after ABM training. Results ABM training led to significantly greater decrease in clinician-rated symptoms of depression as compared to the control condition. No differences between ABM and placebo were found for self-reported symptoms. ABM induced a change of AB towards relatively more positive stimuli for participants that also showed greater symptom reduction. Conclusion The current study demonstrates that ABM produces early changes in blinded clinician-rated depressive symptoms and that changes in AB is linked to changes in symptoms. ABM may have practical potential in the treatment of residual depression.

• Kaufmann, Tobias; Meer, Dennis van der; Doan, Nhat Trung; Schwarz, Emanuel; Lund, Martina Jonette & Agartz, Ingrid [Show all 84 contributors for this article] (2019). Common brain disorders are associated with heritable patterns of apparent aging of the brain. Nature Neuroscience. ISSN 1097-6256. 22(10), p. 1617–1623. doi: 10.1038/s41593-019-0471-7. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Common risk factors for psychiatric and other brain disorders are likely to converge on biological pathways influencing the development and maintenance of brain structure and function across life. Using structural MRI data from 45,615 individuals aged 3–96 years, we demonstrate distinct patterns of apparent brain aging in several brain disorders and reveal genetic pleiotropy between apparent brain aging in healthy individuals and common brain disorders.

• Østergaard, Tom; Lundgren, Tobias; Rosendahl, Ingvar; Zettle, Robert; Jonassen, Rune & Harmer, Catherine [Show all 9 contributors for this article] (2019). Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Preceded by Attention Bias Modification on Residual Symptoms in Depression: A 12-Month Follow-Up. Frontiers in Psychology. 10, p. 1–13. doi: 10.3389/fpsyg.2019.01995. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Depression is a highly recurrent disorder with limited treatment alternatives for reducing risk of subsequent episodes. Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) and attention bias modification (ABM) separately have shown some promise in reducing depressive symptoms. This study investigates (a) if group-based ACT had a greater impact in reducing residual symptoms of depression over a 12-month follow-up than a control condition, and (b) if preceding ACT with ABM produced added benefits. This multisite study consisted of two phases. In phase 1, participants with a history of depression, currently in remission (N = 244), were randomized to either receive 14 days of ABM or a control condition. In phase 2, a quasi- experimental design was adopted, and only phase-1 participants from the Sørlandet site (N = 124) next received an 8-week group-based ACT intervention. Self-reported and clinician-rated depression symptoms were assessed at baseline, immediately after phase 1 and at 1, 2, 6, and 12 months after the conclusion of phase 1. At 12-month follow-up, participants who received ACT exhibited fewer self-reported and clinician-rated depressive symptoms. There were no significant differences between ACT groups preceded by ABM or a control condition. There were no significant differences between ACT groups preceded by ABM or a control condition. Group-based ACT successfully decreased residual symptoms in depression over 12 months, suggesting some promise in preventing relapse.

• Ryberg, Wenche; Diep, Lien My; Landrø, Nils Inge & Fosse, Roar (2019). Effects of the Collaborative Assessment and Management of Suicidality (CAMS) Model: A Secondary Analysis of Moderation and Influencing Factors. Archives of Suicide Research. ISSN 1381-1118. doi: 10.1080/13811118.2019.1650143. Full text in Research Archive
• Rasouli, Omid; Gotaas, Merethe Otelie Eide; Stensdotter, Ann-Katrin; Skovlund, Eva; Landrø, Nils Inge & Dåstøl, Pål Øyvind [Show all 7 contributors for this article] (2019). Neuropsychological dysfunction in chronic fatigue syndrome and the relation between objective and subjective findings. Neuropsychology. ISSN 0894-4105. 33(5), p. 658–669. doi: 10.1037/neu0000550. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Objective: This study aimed to explore the relationship between self-reported cognitive difficulties, objective neuropsychological test performances, and subjective health complaints in chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) and to examine the degree of impaired cognitive functions. Method: A total of 236 consecutively recruited outpatients, aged between 18 and 62 years, completed the tests. Self-administered questionnaires were used for assessing fatigue, pain, depression, anxiety and subjective cognitive complaints (Everyday Memory Questionnaire, EMQ). Also, neuropsychological tests, i.e., Stroop I-IV, CVLT-II learning/delay, WAIS-III L-N Sequencing, and PASAT were performed to examine whether these objective measures correlated with subjective complaints and were compared with normative data. Results: There was a trend of association (p<0.05) between unadjusted EMQ with Stroop IV (inhibition and shifting attention), CVLT-II learning/delay (verbal learning and memory) and WAIS-III L-N Sequencing (working memory), but none were statistically significant at the 0.001 level. EMQ was positively associated with fatigue, pain, and depression (p<0.001). PASAT (working memory) was negatively associated with pain (p<0.001). Between 21% and 38% of the patients performed below the 1.5 SD cut-off for clinically significant impairment on the Stroop tests. Conclusion: The self-reported cognitive performance was not strongly associated with the objective cognitive performances on any domains in patients with CFS. Patients with higher fatigue, pain and depression levels reported greater subjective cognitive difficulties, also higher pain related to lower objective working memory function. The CFS patients had problems mainly in domains of psychomotor speed and attention measured by the objective neuropsychological tests.

• Yang, Liu; Wildenberg, Wery P. M. van den; Graaf, Ysanne de; Ames, Susan L.; Baldacchino, Alexander & Bø, Ragnhild [Show all 55 contributors for this article] (2019). Is (poly-) substance use associated with impaired inhibitory control? A mega-analysis controlling for confounders. Neuroscience and Biobehavioral Reviews. ISSN 0149-7634. 105, p. 288–304. doi: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2019.07.006. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Many studies have reported that heavy substance use is associated with impaired response inhibition. Studies typically focused on associations with a single substance, while polysubstance use is common. Further, most studies compared heavy users with light/non-users, though substance use occurs along a continuum. The current mega-analysis accounted for these issues by aggregating individual data from 43 studies (3610 adult participants) that used the Go/No-Go (GNG) or Stop-signal task (SST) to assess inhibition among mostly “recreational” substance users (i.e., the rate of substance use disorders was low). Main and interaction effects of substance use, demographics, and task-characteristics were entered in a linear mixed model. Contrary to many studies and reviews in the field, we found that only lifetime cannabis use was associated with impaired response inhibition in the SST. An interaction effect was also observed: the relationship between tobacco use and response inhibition (in the SST) differed between cannabis users and non-users, with a negative association between tobacco use and inhibition in the cannabis non-users. In addition, participants’ age, education level, and some task characteristics influenced inhibition outcomes. Overall, we found limited support for impaired inhibition among substance users when controlling for demographics and task-characteristics.

• Jacobsen, Henrik Børsting; Stubhaug, Audun; Schirmer, Henrik; Landrø, Nils Inge; Wilsgaard, Tom & Mathiesen, Ellisiv B. [Show all 7 contributors for this article] (2019). Neuropsychological tests of immediate verbal recall and psychomotor speed have significant effects on cold-pressor pain tolerance in the Tromsø study. European Journal of Pain. ISSN 1090-3801. 23(9), p. 1608–1618. doi: 10.1002/ejp.1437. Full text in Research Archive
• Maglanoc, Luigi Angelo; Kaufmann, Tobias; Jonassen, Rune; Hilland, Eva; Beck, Dani & Landrø, Nils Inge [Show all 7 contributors for this article] (2019). Multimodal fusion of structural and functional brain imaging in depression using linked independent component analysis. Human Brain Mapping. ISSN 1065-9471. doi: 10.1002/hbm.24802. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Previous structural and functional neuroimaging studies have implicated distributed brain regions and networks in depression. However, there are no robust imaging biomarkers that are specific to depression, which may be due to clinical heterogeneity and neurobiological complexity. A dimensional approach and fusion of imaging modalities may yield a more coherent view of the neuronal correlates of depression. We used linked independent component analysis to fuse cortical macrostructure (thickness, area, gray matter density), white matter diffusion properties and resting‐state functional magnetic resonance imaging default mode network amplitude in patients with a history of depression (n = 170) and controls (n = 71). We used univariate and machine learning approaches to assess the relationship between age, sex, case–control status, and symptom loads for depression and anxiety with the resulting brain components. Univariate analyses revealed strong associations between age and sex with mainly global but also regional specific brain components, with varying degrees of multimodal involvement. In contrast, there were no significant associations with case–control status, nor symptom loads for depression and anxiety with the brain components, nor any interaction effects with age and sex. Machine learning revealed low model performance for classifying patients from controls and predicting symptom loads for depression and anxiety, but high age prediction accuracy. Multimodal fusion of brain imaging data alone may not be sufficient for dissecting the clinical and neurobiological heterogeneity of depression. Precise clinical stratification and methods for brain phenotyping at the individual level based on large training samples may be needed to parse the neuroanatomy of depression.

• Maglanoc, Luigi Angelo; Kaufmann, Tobias; Meer, Dennis van der; Marquand, André F.; Wolfers, Thomas & Jonassen, Rune [Show all 10 contributors for this article] (2019). Brain connectome mapping of complex human traits and their polygenic architecture using machine learning. Biological Psychiatry. ISSN 0006-3223. p. 1–10. doi: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2019.10.011. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Background Mental disorders and individual characteristics such as intelligence and personality are complex traits sharing a largely unknown neuronal basis. Their genetic architectures are highly polygenic and overlapping, which is supported by heterogeneous phenotypic expression and substantial clinical overlap. Brain network analysis provides a non-invasive means of dissecting biological heterogeneity yet its sensitivity, specificity and validity in assessing individual characteristics relevant for brain function and mental health and their genetic underpinnings in clinical applications remains a challenge. Methods In a machine learning approach, we predicted individual scores for educational attainment, fluid intelligence and dimensional measures of depression, anxiety and neuroticism using fMRI-based static and dynamic temporal synchronization between large-scale brain network nodes in 10,343 healthy individuals from the UK Biobank. In addition to age and sex to serve as our reference point, we also predicted individual polygenic scores for related phenotypes, and 13 different neuroticism traits and schizophrenia. Results Beyond high accuracy for age and sex, supporting the biological sensitivity of the connectome-based features, permutation tests revealed above chance-level prediction accuracy for trait-level educational attainment and fluid intelligence. Educational attainment and fluid intelligence were mainly negatively associated with static brain connectivity in frontal and default mode networks, whereas age showed positive correlations with a more widespread pattern. In contrast, prediction accuracy was at chance level for depression, anxiety, neuroticism and polygenic scores across traits. Conclusion These novel findings provide a benchmark for future studies linking the genetic architecture of individual and mental health traits with fMRI-based brain connectomics.

• Jacobsen, Henrik Børsting; Stubhaug, Audun; Schirmer, Henrik; Landrø, Nils Inge; Wilsgaard, Tom & Mathiesen, Ellisiv B. [Show all 7 contributors for this article] (2019). Neuropsychological functions of verbal recall and psychomotor speed significantly affect pain tolerance. European Journal of Pain. ISSN 1090-3801. 23(9), p. 1608–1618. doi: 10.1002/ejp.1437. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Background: Effects from cognitive performance on pain tolerance have been documented, however, sample sizes are small and confounders often overlooked. We aimed to establish that performance on neuropsychological tests was associated with pain tolerance, controlling for salient confounders. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study nested within the Tromsø-6 survey. Neuropsychological test performance and the cold pressor test were investigated in 4,623 participants. Due to significant interaction with age, participants were divided into three age groups (<60, ≥60 to <70 and ≥70 years). Cox proportional hazard models assessed the relationship between neuropsychological tests and cold pressure pain tolerance, using hand-withdrawal as event. The fully adjusted models controlled for sex, education, BMI, smoking status, exercise, systolic blood pressure, sleep problems and mental distress. Results: In the adjusted models, participants aged ≥70 years showed a decreased hazard of hand withdrawal of 18% (HR 0.82, 95% CI (0.73, 0.92) per standard deviation on immediate verbal recall, and a decreased hazard of 23% (HR 0.77, 95% CI (0.65, 0.08) per standard deviation on psychomotor speed. Participants aged ≥60 to <70 years had a significant decreased hazard of 11% (HR 0.89, 95% CI (0.80, 0.98) per standard deviation on immediate word recall. In participants aged <60 years, there was a decreased hazard of 14% (HR 0.86 95% CI: 0.76, 0.98), per standard deviation on psychomotor speed. Conclusion: Better performance on neuropsychological tests increased pain tolerance on the cold pressor test. These exposure effects were present in all age groups. Significance: This paper describes substantial associations between cognitive functioning and cold pressor tolerance in 4,623 participants. Reduced psychomotor speed and poor verbal recall gave greater odds for hand-withdrawal on the cold pressor task. The associations were stronger in older participants, indicating an interaction with age.

• Østergaard, Tom; Lundgren, Tobias; Zettle, Robert; Jonassen, Rune; Harmer, Catherine & Stiles, Tore C [Show all 8 contributors for this article] (2018). Acceptance and Commitment Therapy preceded by an experimental Attention Bias Modification procedure in recurrent depression: Study protocol for a randomized controlled trial. Trials. 19(203), p. 1–12. doi: 10.1186/s13063-018-2515-9. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Background This project studies the effect of group-based Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) following Attention Bias Modification (ABM) on residual symptoms in recurrent depression. ACT is a cognitive-behavioral intervention combining acceptance and mindfulness processes with commitment and behavior-change processes. ACT enjoys modest empirical support in treating depression and has also shown promising results in secondary prevention of depression. The experimental cognitive bias modification (ABM) procedure has been shown to reduce surrogate markers of depression vulnerability in patients in remission from depression. The aim of the current project is to investigate if the effect of group-based ACT on reducing residual depressive symptoms can be enhanced by preceding it with ABM. Also, assessment of the relationship between conceptually relevant therapeutic processes and outcome will be investigated. Methods/design An invitation to participate in this project was extended to 120 individuals within a larger sample who had just completed a separate randomized, multisite, clinical trial (referred to hereafter as Phase 1) in which they received either ABM (n = 60) or a control condition without bias modification (n = 60). This larger Phase-1 sample consisted of 220 persons with a history of at least two episodes of major depression who were currently in remission or not fulfilling the criteria of major depression. After its inclusion, Phase-1 participants from the Sørlandet site (n = 120) were also recruited for this study in which they received an 8-week group-based ACT intervention. Measures will be taken immediately after Phase 1, 1 month, 2 months, 6 months, and 1 year after the conclusion of Phase 1. Discussion This study sequentially combines acceptable, nondrug interventions from neuropsychology and cognitive-behavioral psychology in treating residual symptoms in depression. The results will provide information about the effectiveness of treatment and on mechanisms and processes of change that may be valuable in understanding and further developing ABM and ACT, combined and alone.

• Berge, Torkil; Bjøntegård, Kjersti Sunniva; Ekern, Petter; Furan, Martin Peder Fronth; Landrø, Nils Inge & Larsen, Grete Jorunn Sølvberg [Show all 9 contributors for this article] (2018). Bruk av tvang i psykisk helsevern – dilemmaer i beslutningsprosessen. Tidsskrift for Den norske legeforening (Tidsskriftet). ISSN 0029-2001. 138(12). doi: 10.4045/tidsskr.17.0338. Full text in Research Archive
• Hilland, Eva; Landrø, Nils Inge; Harmer, Catherine; Maglanoc, Luigi Angelo & Jonassen, Rune (2018). Within-network connectivity in the salience network after attention bias modification training in residual depression: Report from a preregistered clinical trial. Frontiers in Human Neuroscience. 12. doi: 10.3389/fnhum.2018.00508. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Alterations in resting state networks (RSNs) are associated with emotional- and attentional control difficulties in depressed individuals. Attentional bias modification (ABM) training may lead to more adaptive emotional processing in depression, but little is known about the neural underpinnings associated with ABM. In the current study a sample of 134 previously depressed individuals were randomized into 14 days of computerized ABM- or a closely matched placebo training regime followed by a resting state magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan. Using independent component analysis (ICA) we examined within-network connectivity in three major RSN’s, the default mode network (DMN), the salience network (SN) and the central executive network (CEN) after 2 weeks of ABM training. We found a significant difference between the training groups within the SN, but no difference within the DMN or CEN. Moreover, a significant symptom improvement was observed in the ABM group after training.

• López-Fernández, Olatz; Kuss, Daria J.; Pontes, Halley M.; Griffiths, Mark D.; Dawes, Christopher & Justice, Lucy V. [Show all 34 contributors for this article] (2018). Measurement invariance of the short version of the problematic mobile phone use questionnaire (PMPUQ-SV) across eight languages. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health (IJERPH). ISSN 1661-7827. 15:1213(6), p. 1–25. doi: 10.3390/ijerph15061213. Full text in Research Archive
• Aasvik, Julie Kristine; Stiles, Tore C; Woodhouse, Astrid; Borchgrevink, Petter Chr. & Landrø, Nils Inge (2018). The effect of insomnia on neuropsychological functioning in patients with comorbid symptoms of pain, fatigue, and mood disorders. Archives of Clinical Neuropsychology. ISSN 0887-6177. 33(1), p. 14–23. doi: 10.1093/arclin/acx040. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Objectives: To examine if elevated symptoms of insomnia affects neuropsychological functioning in patients with concurrent symptoms of pain, fatigue, and mood disorders. Methods and results: A total of seventy-six subjects participated in this (cross-sectional) study. Based on the cut-off score guidelines from The Insomnia Severity Index subjects were assigned to either a clinical insomnia group (N = 35) or a comparison group (N = 41). Factors such as age, general cognitive functioning, and symptoms of pain, fatigue, depression, and anxiety did not differ between the groups. Both groups completed a questionnaire which assessed subjective memory functioning. In addition they completed a set of neuropsychological tests measuring general cognitive functioning, spatial and verbal working memory, and inhibitory control. Although the subjects with clinical insomnia did not report more memory problems than the comparison group, they presented significant deficiencies on the tests assessing spatial and verbal working memory. There was no difference between the groups in inhibitory control. Conclusions: This study shows that as the symptom severity of insomnia increases and become clinically significant, it has substantial effect on both spatial and verbal-numeric working memory functioning. By differentiating and testing different domains of working memory, this study provides a more detailed and nuanced characterization of working memory deficiencies than the previous studies within this field. The results need to be transferred to clinical practice so that neuropsychologists include assessments of sleep as part of their routine screenings.

• Vethe, Daniel; Kallestad, Håvard; Jacobsen, Henrik Børsting; Landrø, Nils Inge; Borchgrevink, Petter Chr. & Stiles, Tore C (2018). The relationship between improvement in insomnia severity and long-term outcomes in the treatment of chronic fatigue. Frontiers in Psychology. 9:1764, p. 1–8. doi: 10.3389/fpsyg.2018.01764. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Background: The current treatments of choice for patients with chronic fatigue are moderately effective. One way to advance treatments is identifying process variables associated with good treatment outcomes. There is little knowledge regarding a possible association between insomnia and long-term outcomes in the treatment of chronic fatigue. Aims: Testing whether (1) improvement in insomnia is associated with improvement in levels of fatigue at 1-year follow-up, and (2) if such a relationship remains when controlling for improvement in levels of anxiety and depression, and pain in patients with chronic fatigue. Methods: Patients having been on sick leave 8 weeks or more due to chronic fatigue were referred to a return-to-work program. They received an intensive 3.5-week inpatient treatment program based on acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT). Before treatment and at 1-year follow-up the patients completed questionnaires assessing levels of insomnia severity, pain, anxiety and depression, and fatigue. Results: A regression analysis found that changes in insomnia-severity were associated with changes in fatigue-levels at 1-year follow-up. When changes in levels of anxiety and depression were entered in the regression analysis, anxiety and depression was significantly associated with levels of fatigue but insomnia was not. The association between anxiety and depression and fatigue was at a trend level when pain was entered into the model. Conclusion: Long-term improvement in insomnia severity was significantly associated with long-term improvement in chronic fatigue, but not independently of long-term improvement in anxiety and depression, and pain.

• Svensson, Elisabeth; Nystrøm, Bo; Goldie, Ian; Landrø, Nils Inge; Siden, Åke & Staff, Peer [Show all 8 contributors for this article] (2018). Superior outcomes following cervical fusion vs. multimodal rehabilitation in a subgroup of randomized Whiplash-Associated-Disorders (WAD) patients indicating somatic pain origin. Comparison of outcome assessments made by four examiners from different disciplines. Scandinavian Journal of Pain. ISSN 1877-8860. 18(2), p. 175–186. doi: 10.1515/sjpain-2017-0180. Full text in Research Archive
• Maglanoc, Luigi Angelo; Landrø, Nils Inge; Jonassen, Rune; Kaufmann, Tobias; Palomera, Aldo Còrdova & Hilland, Eva [Show all 7 contributors for this article] (2018). Data-driven clustering reveals a link between symptoms and functional brain connectivity in depression. Biological Psychiatry: Cognitive Neuroscience and Neuroimaging. ISSN 2451-9022. 4(1), p. 16–26. doi: 10.1016/j.bpsc.2018.05.005. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  BACKGROUND: Depression is a complex disorder with large interindividual variability in symptom profiles that often occur alongside symptoms of other psychiatric domains, such as anxiety. A dimensional and symptom-based approach may help refine the characterization of depressive and anxiety disorders and thus aid in establishing robust biomarkers. We use resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging to assess the brain functional connectivity correlates of a symptom-based clustering of individuals. METHODS: We assessed symptoms using the Beck Depression and Beck Anxiety Inventories in individuals with or without a history of depression (N = 1084) and high-dimensional data clustering to form subgroups based on symptom profiles. We compared dynamic and static functional connectivity between subgroups in a subset of the total sample (n = 252). RESULTS: We identified five subgroups with distinct symptom profiles, which cut across diagnostic boundaries with different total severity, symptom patterns, and centrality. For instance, inability to relax, fear of the worst, and feelings of guilt were among the most severe symptoms in subgroups 1, 2, and 3, respectively. The distribution of individuals was 32%, 25%, 22%, 10%, and 11% in subgroups 1 to 5, respectively. These subgroups showed evidence of differential static brain-connectivity patterns, in particular comprising a frontotemporal network. In contrast, we found no significant associations with clinical sum scores, dynamic functional connectivity, or global connectivity. CONCLUSIONS: Adding to the pursuit of individual-based treatment, subtyping based on a dimensional conceptualization and unique constellations of anxiety and depression symptoms is supported by distinct patterns of static functional connectivity in the brain.

• Øverås, Maria; Kapstad, Hilde; Brunborg, Cathrine; Landrø, Nils Inge & Rø, Øyvind (2017). Is overestimation of body size associated with neuropsychological weaknesses in anorexia nervosa? European Eating Disorders Review. ISSN 1072-4133. 25(2), p. 129–134. doi: 10.1002/erv.2500. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Background: Recent research indicates some evidence of neuropsychological weaknesses in visuospatial memory, central coherence and set-shifting in adults with anorexia nervosa (AN). The growing interest in neuropsychological functioning of patients with AN is based upon the assumption that neuropsychological weaknesses contribute to the clinical features of the illness. However, due to a paucity of research on the connection between neuropsychological difficulties and the clinical features of AN, this link remains hypothetical. The main objective of this study was to explore the association between specific areas of neuropsychological functioning and body size estimation in patients with AN and healthy controls. Methods: The sample consisted of 36 females diagnosed with anorexia nervosa and 34 healthy female controls. Participants were administered the Continuous Visual Memory Test (CVMT) and the recall trials of Rey Complex Figure Test (RCFT) to assess visual memory. Central coherence was assessed using the copy trial of RCFT, and the Wisconsin Card Sorting Test (WCST) was used to assess set-shifting. Body size estimation was assessed with a computerized morphing program. Results: The analyses showed no significant correlations between any of the neuropsychological measures and body size estimation. Conclusion: The results suggest that there is no association between these areas of neuropsychological difficulties and body size estimation among patients with AN. The final version of this research has been published in European Eating Disorders Review. © 2017 Wiley

• Benavent, Sigrid Aune de Rodez; Nygaard, Gro Owren; Harbo, Hanne Flinstad; Tønnesen, Siren; Sowa, Piotr & Landrø, Nils Inge [Show all 13 contributors for this article] (2017). Fatigue and cognition: Pupillary responses to problem-solving in early multiple sclerosis patients. Brain and Behavior. 7(7). doi: 10.1002/brb3.717. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Introduction In early multiple sclerosis (MS) patients, cognitive changes and fatigue are frequent and troublesome symptoms, probably related to both structural and functional brain changes. Whether there is a common cause of these symptoms in MS is unknown. In theory, an altered regulation of central neuropeptides can lead to changes in regulation of autonomic function, cognitive difficulties, and fatigue. Direct measurements of central neuropeptides are difficult to perform, but measurements of the eye pupil can be used as a reliable proxy of function. Methods This study assesses pupil size during problem-solving in early MS patients versus controls. A difference in pupil size to a cognitive challenge could signal altered activity within the autonomic system because of early functional brain changes associated with cognitive load. We recruited MS patients (mean disease duration: 2.6 years, N = 41) and age-matched healthy controls (N = 43) without eye pathology. Neurological impairment, magnetic resonance imaging, visual evoked potentials, depression, and fatigue were assessed in all of the patients. In both groups, we assessed processing speed and retinal imaging. Pupil size was recorded with an eye-tracker during playback of multiplication tasks. Results Both groups performed well on the cognitive test. The groups showed similar pupillary responses with a mean of 0.55 mm dilation in patients and 0.54 mm dilation in controls for all the tasks collapsed together. However, controls (N = 9) with low cognitive scores (LCS) had an increased pupillary response to cognitive tasks, whereas LCS MS patients (N = 6) did not (p < .05). There was a tendency toward a smaller pupillary response in patients with fatigue. Conclusions This is the first study to investigate pupillary responses to cognitive tasks in MS patients. Our results suggest that MS-related changes in cognition and fatigue may be associated with changes in arousal and the autonomic regulation of task-related pupillary responses. This supports the theory of a link between cognition and fatigue in MS.

• Skule, Cecilie; Berge, Torkil; Eilertsen, Espen Moen; Ulleberg, Pål; Lending, Hilde Dallavara & Egeland, Jens [Show all 7 contributors for this article] (2017). Levels of alcohol use and depression severity as predictors of missed therapy sessions in cognitive behavioral psycho-educational group treatment for depression. Addiction Research and Theory. ISSN 1606-6359. 25(1), p. 11–16. doi: 10.3109/16066359.2016.1173683. Full text in Research Archive
• Aasvik, Julie Kristine; Woodhouse, Astrid; Stiles, Tore Charles; Jacobsen, Henrik Børsting; Landmark, Tormod & Glette, Mari [Show all 8 contributors for this article] (2017). Effectiveness of working memory training among subjects currently on sick leave due to complex symptoms. Frontiers in Psychology. 7. doi: 10.3389/fpsyg.2016.02003. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Introduction: The current study examined if adaptive working memory training (Cogmed QM) has the potential to improve inhibitory control, working memory capacity, and perceptions of memory functioning in a group of patients currently on sick leave due to symptoms of pain, insomnia, fatigue, depression and anxiety. Participants who were referred to a vocational rehabilitation center volunteered to take part in the study. Methods: Participants were randomly assigned to either a training condition (N = 25) or a control condition (N = 29). Participants in the training condition received working memory training in addition to the clinical intervention offered as part of the rehabilitation program, while participants in the control condition received treatment as usual i.e., the rehabilitation program only. Inhibitory control was measured by The Stop Signal Task, working memory was assessed by the Spatial Working Memory Test, while perceptions of memory functioning were assessed by The Everyday Memory Questionnaire-Revised. Results: Participants in the training group showed a significant improvement on the post-tests of inhibitory control when compared with the comparison group (p = 0.025). The groups did not differ on the post-tests of working memory. Both groups reported less memory problems at post-testing, but there was no sizeable difference between the two groups. Conclusions: Results indicate that working memory training does not improve general working memory capacity per se. Nor does it seem to give any added effects in terms of targeting and improving self-perceived memory functioning. Results do, however, provide evidence to suggest that inhibitory control is accessible and susceptible to modification by adaptive working memory training.

• Bentsen, Håvard & Landrø, Nils Inge (2017). Neurocognitive effects of an omega-3 fatty acid and vitamins E+C in schizophrenia: A randomised controlled trial. Prostaglandins, Leukotrienes and Essential Fatty Acids. ISSN 0952-3278. 136, p. 57–66. doi: 10.1016/j.plefa.2017.10.002. Full text in Research Archive
• Skule, Cecilie; Ulleberg, Pål; Berge, Torkil; Lending, Hilde Dallavara; Egeland, Jens & Landrø, Nils Inge (2017). Interventions for Subjects with Depressive Symptoms with or without Unhealthy Alcohol Use: Are There Different Patterns of Change? Frontiers in Psychology. 8(MAY). doi: 10.3389/fpsyg.2017.00788. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Background: It has been suggested that alcohol problems negatively affect therapeutic interventions for depression. This study examines the patterns of change in depressive symptoms following an intervention for depression, in participants with or without comorbid unhealthy alcohol use. Methods: Depressive symptoms (BDI–II), perceived control of depressive symptoms (UNCONTROL) and unhealthy alcohol use (AUDIT) were assessed in 116 patients before and after attending a cognitive behavioral psychoeducational intervention for depression. At pretest the mean score of AUDIT was 8.1, indicating a, on average, risk of harmful level of alcohol abuse. At pretest the majority of the total sample had a moderate degree of depressive symptoms, with a mean BDI–II score of 25.1 and 36.2% had a risky use of alcohol as measured with AUDIT score at 8 points or above. To assess the relationship between depressive symptoms, perceived uncontrollability of depression and alcohol use across time, a cross-lagged panel model was estimated. Results: A clinical significant reduction of depressive symptoms, and a parallel and statistically significant increase in the perceived control of depressive symptoms, was identified after attending a cognitive behavioral psychoeducational intervention for depression. At posttest, the mean BDI–II score was 17.8, demonstrating a statistically significant decrease of 7.3 points in depressive symptoms from before starting the course to 6 months later. The effect size (d-value) of 0.83 can be interpreted as a large decrease in depressive symptoms. In this sample alcohol use and depressive symptoms seemed to be unrelated. The cross-lagged correlation panel analysis indicated that a high degree of perceived control of depressive symptoms leads to a reduction in depressive symptoms, and not vice versa. Conclusion: We found that this intervention for depression were effective in reducing depressive symptoms. The patterns of change seemed to be independent of risky use of alcohol, although leaving the study was systematically associated with higher AUDIT-scores. As participants with or without unhealthy alcohol use show the same patterns of change regarding reduction of depressive symptoms and perceived control of depression, both groups could be offered the same cognitive behavioral psychoeducational interventions for depression.

• Bø, Ragnhild; Billieux, Joël; Gjerde, Line C.; Eilertsen, Espen Moen & Landrø, Nils Inge (2017). Do executive functions predict binge-drinking patterns? Evidence from a longitudinal study in young adulthood. Frontiers in Psychology. 8. doi: 10.3389/fpsyg.2017.00489. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Background: Impairments in executive functions (EFs) are related to binge drinking in young adulthood, but research on how EFs influence future binge drinking is lacking. The aim of the current report is therefore to investigate the association between various EFs and later severity of, and change in, binge drinking over a prolonged period during young adulthood. Methods: At baseline, 121 students reported on their alcohol habits (Alcohol use disorder identification test; Alcohol use questionnaire). Concurrently, EFs [working memory, reversal, set-shifting, response inhibition, response monitoring and decision-making (with ambiguity and implicit risk)] were assessed. Eighteen months later, information on alcohol habits for 103 of the participants were gathered. Data were analyzed by means of multilevel regression modeling. Results: Future severity of binge drinking was uniquely predicted by performance on the Information sampling task, assessing risky decision-making (β = -1.86, 95% CI: -3.69, -0.04). None of the study variables predicted severity or change in binge drinking. Conclusion: Future severity of binge drinking was associated with making risky decisions in the prospect for gain, suggesting reward hypersensitivity. Future studies should aim at clarifying whether there is a causal association between decision-making style and binge drinking. Performance on all executive tasks was unrelated to change in binge drinking patterns; however, the finding was limited by overall small changes, and needs to be confirmed with longer follow-up periods.

• Bø, Ragnhild & Landrø, Nils Inge (2017). Inhibitory control and response monitoring are not systematically related to weekly alcohol consumption in the general population. Psychopharmacology. ISSN 0033-3158. p. 1–8. doi: 10.1007/s00213-017-4578-9. Full text in Research Archive
• Kraft, Brage; Jonassen, Rune; Stiles, Tore Charles & Landrø, Nils Inge (2017). Dysfunctional Metacognitive Beliefs Are Associated with Decreased Executive Control. Frontiers in Psychology. 8. doi: 10.3389/fpsyg.2017.00593. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Dysfunctional metacognitive beliefs (“metacognitions”) and executive control are important factors in mental disorders such as depression and anxiety, but the relationship between these concepts has not been studied systematically. We examined whether there is an association between metacognitions and executive control and hypothesized that decreased executive control statistically predicts increased levels of metacognitions. Two hundred and ninety-nine individuals recruited from the general population and outpatient psychiatric clinics completed the Metacognitions Questionnaire-30 and three subtests from the Cambridge Neuropsychological Test Automated Battery corresponding to the three-component model of executive functions. Controlling for current depression and anxiety symptoms, decreased ability to shift between mental sets was associated with increased negative beliefs about the uncontrollability and danger of worry and beliefs about the need to control thoughts. The results suggest a basic association between metacognitions and executive control. Individual differences in executive control could prove important in the personalization of metacognitive therapy. This Document is Protected by copyright and was first published by Frontiers. All rights reserved. it is reproduced with permission.

• Jacobsen, Henrik Børsting; Kallestad, Håvard; Landrø, Nils Inge; Borchgrevink, Petter Chr. & Stiles, Tore Charles (2017). Processes in acceptance and commitment therapy and the rehabilitation of chronic fatigue. Scandinavian Journal of Psychology. ISSN 0036-5564. 58(3), p. 211–220. doi: 10.1111/sjop.12363. Full text in Research Archive
• Bø, Ragnhild; Billieux, Joël & Landrø, Nils Inge (2016). Binge drinking is characterized by decisions favoring positive and discounting negative consequences. Addiction Research and Theory. ISSN 1606-6359. 24(6), p. 499–506. doi: 10.3109/16066359.2016.1174215. Full text in Research Archive
• Fuglset, Tone Seim; Landrø, Nils Inge; Reas, Deborah & Rø, Øyvind (2016). Functional brain alterations in anorexia nervosa: A scoping review. Journal of Eating Disorders. 4, p. 1–13. doi: 10.1186/s40337-016-0118-y. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Background Neuroimaging allows for the identification of brain abnormalities and alterations that are associated with anorexia nervosa (AN). We performed a scoping review to map out the extent and nature of recent research activity on functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) in individuals diagnosed with, or recovered from, AN (AN-REC). Main text A literature search of PubMed, Psychinfo and Embase was conducted using the search terms “anorexia nervosa” AND “functional magnetic resonance imaging.” We included fMRI studies that involved a comparison between individuals with AN or AN-REC and healthy controls published in English language between 2010 and 2015. A total of 49 papers were included, regardless of the experimental stimuli or paradigm. Conclusions Findings varied considerably across studies, reflecting methodological differences in study design, such as sample differences and experimental paradigms. Collectively, studies published during the past five years suggest altered activation in regions related to the fronto-striato and the limbic circuits, which are theorized to have an important role in the pathophysiology of AN.

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• Bø, Ragnhild; Røssberg, Jan Ivar; Klovning, Atle; Landrø, Nils Inge; Hagen, Hallvard Solbø & Andreassen, Ole [Show all 7 contributors for this article] (2026). Forskning i allmennpraksis er nødvendig og etterspurt – men har mange utfordringer. Dagens medisin. ISSN 1501-4290. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Det trekkes ofte frem at forskning i allmennpraksis er viktig for bedre behandling av vanlige helseplager. Vår erfaring er at entusiasmen for forskningsløft i fastlegetjenesten er langt større enn det rammene tillater i dag.

• 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
• Buer, Sofie; Hagen, Bjørn Ole Ingulfsvann; Nygaard, Anders; Søraas, Arne Vasli Lund; Landrø, Nils Inge & Bø, Ragnhild [Show all 11 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
• 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.

• 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
• Landrø, Nils Inge; Harmer, Catherine; Blackwell, Simon E.; Bø, Ragnhild; Dawson, Gerry & Goodwin, Guy [Show all 16 contributors for this article] (2023). Combining antidepressants and attention bias modification in primary health care (DEPTREAT): Protocol for a pragmatic randomized controlled trial. Contemporary Clinical Trials. ISSN 1551-7144. 133. doi: 10.1016/j.cct.2023.107326. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Background Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a highly prevalent psychiatric condition associated with significant disability, mortality and economic burden. A large proportion of MDD patients are treated in primary health care in the local community. Attentional Bias Modification (ABM) training in combination with antidepressants could be an effective treatment. Here we test the hypothesis that adding an ABM procedure to regular treatment with antidepressants in primary health care will result in further improvement of symptoms compared to treatment with antidepressants alone (treatment as usual, TAU) and as compared to an active comparison condition. Methods A total of 246 patients with a diagnosis of MDD will be included in this study. The study is a three-armed pragmatic randomized controlled trial comparing the efficacy of ABM as add-on to treatment with antidepressants in primary care (ABM condition) compared to standard antidepressant treatment (TAU condition). In a third group participants will complete the same schedule of intermediate assessments as the ABM condition in addition to TAU, but no ABM, thus controlling for the non-training-specific aspects of the ABM condition (Antidepressant active comparison group). Discussion The clinical outcome of this study may help develop easily accessible, low-cost treatment of depression in primary health care. Moreover, the study aims to broaden our knowledge of optimal treatment for patients with a MDD by providing adjunct treatment to facilitate recovery and long-term gain.

• Nygaard, Sara; Brunvoll, Sonja Hjellegjerde; Heiro, Hilde; Hammarström, Bato; Ellingjord-Dale, Merete & Istre, Mette Stausland [Show all 15 contributors for this article] (2023). Subjective Memory Failure in Critical Care Nurses Recovering from SARS-CoV-2 Infection. Full text in Research Archive
• Østergaard, Tom; Lundgren, Tobias; Rosendahl, Ingvar; Zettle, Robert D.; Jonassen, Rune & Harmer, Catherine [Show all 9 contributors for this article] (2023). Corrigendum: Acceptance and commitment therapy preceded by attention bias modification on residual symptoms in depression: a 12-month follow-up (Frontiers in Psychology, (2019), 10, (1995), 10.3389/fpsyg.2019.01995). Frontiers in Psychology. 14. doi: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1233621. Full text in Research Archive
• Bø, Ragnhild; Kraft, Brage; Jonassen, Rune; Harmer, Catherine & Landrø, Nils Inge (2022). The effect of attentional bias modification on attentional bias change is related to increased emotional reactivity. 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.

• Bø, Ragnhild & Landrø, Nils Inge (2020). Attention and executive functions are not associated with unemployment in patients with major depressive disorder. Psychiatry Research. ISSN 0165-1781. 291. doi: 10.1016/j.psychres.2020.113214. Full text in Research Archive
• Hagen, Bjørn Ole Ingulfsvann; Landrø, Nils Inge; Lau, Bjørn & Stubberud, Jan (2020). Normal auditory attention performance in a depression sample with self-reported attentional difficulties. Full text in Research Archive
• Kaufmann, Tobias; Meer, Dennis van der; Doan, Nhat Trung; Schwarz, Emanuel; Lund, Martina Jonette & Agartz, Ingrid [Show all 97 contributors for this article] (2020). Publisher Correction: Common brain disorders are associated with heritable patterns of apparent aging of the brain (Nature Neuroscience, (2019), 22, 10, (1617-1623), 10.1038/s41593-019-0471-7). Nature Neuroscience. ISSN 1097-6256. 23(2), p. 295–295. doi: 10.1038/s41593-019-0553-6. Full text in Research Archive
• Hagen, Bjørn Ole Ingulfsvann; Lau, Bjørn; Landrø, Nils Inge; Joormann, Jutta & Stubberud, Jan (2019). Goal Management Training of executive functions in depression: Preliminary results from a randomized controlled trial. Full text in Research Archive
• Hilland, Eva; Landrø, Nils Inge; Harmer, Catherine; Maglanoc, Luigi Angelo; Browning, Michael & Jonassen, Rune (2018). Attentional Bias Modification alters fMRI response towards negative stimuli in depression. Full text in Research Archive
• Weider, Siri; Landrø, Nils Inge & Dahlgren, Anna Maria Camilla Lindvall (2018). Cognitive Remediation Therapy for patients with eating disorders. How should it be measured and where do we go next? A scoping review and recommendations for future clinical trials. Full text in Research Archive
• Jonassen, Rune; Hilland, Eva; Harmer, Catherine; Berge, Torkil; Maglanoc, Luigi Angelo & Kraft, Brage [Show all 9 contributors for this article] (2017). Attentional Bias Modification reduces symptom severity in major depression: Preliminary analysis from an ongoing longitudinal RCT study. Full text in Research Archive
• Landrø, Nils Inge (2017). Nevropsykologiske aspekter ved kroniske smerter. In Fors, Egil Andreas & Stiles, Tore Charles (Ed.), Smertepsykologi. Universitetsforlaget. ISSN 9788215024028. Full text in Research Archive
• Jonassen, Rune; Hilland, Eva; Harmer, Catherine; Berge, Torkil; Maglanoc, Luigi Angelo & Kraft, Brage [Show all 9 contributors for this article] (2016). Attention bias modification reduces symptom severity in Major Depression. Preliminary analysis from an ongoing longitudinal RCT study. Full text in Research Archive

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