Dependent Variable- The variable being studied in the experiment; it is expected to change when the independent variable is changed. Thus, a typical experiment will examine the effects of the independent variable on the dependent variable.
Articular processes: These processes form joints between successive vertebrae. The superior and inferior articular processes arise from the same junctions as the transverse processes (one superior and one inferior process on each side), and each process has an articular surface called a facet.
The anatomy of the so-called articular nerves and their relationship to facet denervation in the treatment of low-back pain. J Neurosurg. 1979 Aug. 51(2):172-7. .