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.
Eleventh thoracic vertebrae (T11): At this level, the T11 begins to resemble the size and structure of a lumbar vertebrae. The articular facets for the heads of the ribs are large and primarily on the pedicles, which are thicker and stronger in T11 and T12, than in T1-T10.