About FAST Dart

FAST DART : Data,  Analysis,  Reviews, and Techniques

FAST is providing a free online archive and distribution service for Angelman syndrome related unpublished data and preprints.  Unpublished data includes articles or data that has not been peer-reviewed.  Providing this data allows other researchers in the Angelman syndrome (AS) space to build on prior work, avoid duplicating unsuccessful experiments, and gain insight into potential challenges or pitfalls. Negative or null results, although often overlooked in traditional publishing, are valuable because they help refine hypotheses, enhance experimental designs, and guide future research more effectively. Sharing these findings transparently helps researchers identify what strategies may not be fruitful and allows them to course-correct early, optimizing the use of time, funding, and resources. 

An e-journal dedicated to publishing negative or null data has the potential to revolutionize how the scientific community engages with AS research. By creating a centralized platform for such data, researchers can easily access a broader and more accurate record of the state of research in the field. This open access to previously unpublished results helps to prevent unnecessary repetition of experiments and could streamline the discovery process, accelerating the development of effective therapeutic strategies for AS. 

In addition to negative and null results, this e-journal includes non-peer-reviewed biotechniques and literature reviews that provide even greater value. Techniques that are still in development or under refinement may not yet have the rigorous validation required for traditional publication but are nonetheless crucial for progressing research. Sharing these biotechniques through a non-peer-reviewed e-journal allows researchers to collaborate and improve upon methodologies before they are finalized, fostering innovation and efficiency. It also creates a space for ongoing dialogue and feedback on experimental procedures, ensuring that techniques evolve with input from the broader scientific community. 

Moreover, literature reviews that aren't peer-reviewed can offer valuable insights into emerging trends, gaps in the existing body of work, and potential new directions for AS research. By giving researchers a platform to share their evolving understandings and perspectives, this type of e-journal fosters a dynamic exchange of knowledge that accelerates the synthesis of information. This is especially important in a rare disease field like Angelman syndrome, where the pool of researchers may be smaller, and collaboration is key to overcoming the complexity of the condition. 

Ultimately, having a non-peer-reviewed e-journal for publishing negative or null data, biotechniques, and literature reviews dedicated to Angelman syndrome serves to democratize scientific information, support collaboration, and promote a more holistic and comprehensive understanding of the disease. It ensures that all aspects of the research process—from setbacks and failures to new techniques and evolving theoretical frameworks—are shared, enhancing the overall progress toward effective treatments and interventions for individuals with AS. 

Articles posted here have not been accepted for publication by a journal.  Once the article is posted on the FAST website, the articles are citable; therefore, they cannot be removed; however, it can be revised if the content has substantively changed. If this is the case, email FASTDart@cureangelman.org with your revised article and an explanation of the need to update. 

Articles that are posted here are not peer-reviewed, nor are they edited.  The articles are reviewed to ensure the data included in scientific in nature and does not generally pose a health risk.

FAST does not endorse the articles and does not peer-review the methods, assumptions, conclusions or scientific quality. The views, opinions and conclusions expressed in this e-journal are solely those of the individual author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of FAST, its board of directors, staff, or affiliates. Publication in this e-journal does not constitute an endorsement by FAST. The content is provided for informational and educational purposes only and should not be construed as professional advice. FAST makes no warranties or representations regarding the accuracy, completeness, or timeliness of the articles within this e-journal. FAST disclaims any liability for any loss or damage resulting from reliance on articles published herein.

There is no fee to submit articles to FAST-DART.