The AB Design can be used to quickly assess the effects of an experimental variable. Its main disadvantage its inability to distinguish the experimental effect from possible confounds that might occur coincident with the change of condition.
ceÂ·liÂ·ac disÂ·ease. A disease occurring in children and adults characterized by sensitivity to gluten, with chronic inflammation and atrophy of the mucosa of the upper small intestine; manifestations include diarrhea, malabsorption, steatorrhea, and nutritional and vitamin deficiencies.
Gluten is a protein found in wheat, rye, and barley; in products made from these grains, such as barley malt and couscous; and in related hybrid grains like triticale and kamut. People with celiac disease, gluten intolerance, or a wheat allergy suffer various symptoms when they consume foods containing gluten.