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Core has been described as a corset stabilizing the trunk area, bordered by the diaphragm upwardly, the abdominal muscular complex anterior-laterally, the spinal and gluteal muscles posteriorly and by the pelvic floor and the muscles of the pelvic girdle inferiorly (1). Core Stability (CS) is intended as a neuromuscular skill of trunk control, assisted by passive (ligaments) and active (muscles) elements. The effects of CS training on the strength, endurance and balance of young female dancers were measured. Thirty three young women participated (22 amateur dancers; 11 sedentary people; age 21±5.4yr) were asked to perform endurance (2), strength, and balance (3) tests (Session I) that were repeated after 10 weeks (Session II). During this period, 11 dancers (experimental group, EG) were randomly selected to attend specific training for CS in addition to traditional dancing exercises; 11 dancers only performed regular dance training (dance group, DG); the sedentary people did not carry out any exercise (control group, CG). Within each group and session, descriptive statistics of test performances were computed. Differences between groups and sessions were assessed, setting the level of statistical significance at 5% (p≤0.05) for all comparisons. In both sessions, EG and DG were stronger and more resistant than CG and demonstrated better balance in two balance tests (p, Italian Journal of Anatomy and Embryology, Vol. 121, No. 1 (Supplement) 2016

A correct morphological analysis is strictly related to the modalities of acquisition. A protocol to standardize cross-sectional ultrasound scans of lumbar multifidus (LM) was set, aiming to correct and complete information (1). Three authors of the study took turns as subject and operator mutually, repeating the scans until definite, correct, and complete images were obtained for each of the lumbar levels investigated. The convex probe (5.0Mhz emission) of a LogiqE (Ge Medical Systems, Milwaukee, WI, USA) in B-mode Real Time modality was used. During each scan, the setting of the machine was fixed for all planes. The gain was set at 82, parameters of depth control at 7cm, focal frequency at 31Hz with the implementation of bifocal setting. Each scan conducted on the posterior aspect of the lumbar vertebra produced characteristic shapes that were indicative of the level at which the scan was performed. For a complete and correct definition of the area and section of interest of LM, the recognition of the lateral side of the osteofibrous space was particularly critical (2). Once the optimal plane to scan LM had been defined, three different morphologies, characteristic of the vertebral recesses corresponding to vertebrae L5-L4, L3, L2-L1, were identified (3). To guarantee uniformity in data collection, in the communication and individualization of the parameters characterizing the clinical pictures, the protocol of acquisition had to be repeatable, reliable, and it had to reduce the operator dependence (1,2,3). In conclusion, a correct and complete image is subject to qualitative and quantitative evaluation in the area of interest of LM. This undeniably favours communication between different diagnostic centres and the detection of morphological modifications that characterize both function and pathology., Italian Journal of Anatomy and Embryology, Vol. 121, No. 1 (Supplement) 2016

Orienteers navigate point to point in unfamiliar and uneven grounds using map and compass to run their races. High levels of fitness and running speed are requested to cover successfully long distances and climbs. Strength in ankle and foot muscles is necessary to overcome natural obstacles in rough terrains (1). Eight male orienteers of junior Italian team (OR; age, 19±1.6yr), 8 cross country track and fields experienced runners (TF; 20±4.5yr), and 8 sedentary persons (control group CG; 23±2.7yr), all with right lower limb dominance volunteered. Ages, weights, heights, and body mass indices between groups did not differ (ANOVA, p>0.05). Each participant performed and an isokinetic dynamometer measured 4 repetitions of right and left foot dorsal and plantar flexions at the angular speeds of 60-120-180deg/sec respectively. Within side, group and angular speed, the ratios of peak torques between plantar and dorsal flexors were also computed. Descriptive statistics were calculated within subject, group, movement, angular speed, and side. For each movement, the effects of group and side, and group×side interactions on peak torques at different speeds were compared by ANOVA (statistical significance 5%). Within group, dorsal and plantar flexors of right foot were generally stronger than those of contralateral limb, but differences were not significant. Side-related differences were similar in all groups (p>0.05). On average, OR performed larger peak torques in both sides and movements. Differences were significant in foot plantar flexors at 60-120-180deg/sec, and in foot dorsal flexors at 60 and 120deg/sec (p≤0.04). In both limbs, the ratios between plantar and dorsal flexors were larger in OR at 120-180deg/sec, and in TF at 60deg/sec (p, Italian Journal of Anatomy and Embryology, Vol. 120, No. 1 (Supplement) 2015

Orienteering races usually develop in wooded lands with large differences in slopes. In addition to the climbs, long descents are frequently covered. Therefore, lower limb muscular strength is necessary to sustain these challenges on rough terrains (1). Eight male orienteers of junior Italian team (OR; age, 19±1.6yr), 8 cross country track and fields experienced runners (TF; 20±4.5yr), and 8 sedentary persons (control group CG; 23±2.7yr), all with right lower limb dominance volunteered. Between groups, no age-, weight-, height-, and BMI-related differences were found (ANOVA, p>0.05). Each participant performed and an isokinetic dynamometer measured 5 repetitions of right and left knee flexion and extension at the angular speeds of 60-120-180-240-300deg/sec respectively. The ratios of peak torques between knee flexors and extensors were also computed, at each angular speed. Descriptive statistics were calculated within subject, group, movement, angular speed, and side. For each movement, the effects of group and side, and group×side interactions on peak torques at different speeds were compared by ANOVA (statistical significance 5%). On average within group, flexor and extensor muscles of the right knee were stronger than those of contralateral limb, but no significant differences were found. Side-related differences were similar in all groups (p>0.05). In both sides and movements at each angular speed, OR performed larger peak torques than TF and CG (p, Italian Journal of Anatomy and Embryology, Vol. 120, No. 1 (Supplement) 2015