Preeclampsia is a multifactorial hypertensive disorder of pregnancy founded on abnormal placentation, and the resultant placental ischemic microenvironment is thought to play a crucial role in its pathophysiology. Placental ischemia because of fluctuations in the delivery of oxygen results in oxidative stress, and recent evidence suggests that mitochondrial dysfunction may be a prime mediator. However, large clinical trials of therapeutic antioxidants such as vitamins C and E for the treatment of preeclampsia have been disappointing. L-(+)-ergothioneine (ERG)—an unusual amino acid betaine derived from histidine—has important cytoprotective and antioxidant properties under conditions of high oxidative stress. In this study, we investigated the potential therapeutic effects of administration of ERG in the reduced uterine perfusion pressure (RUPP) rat model of preeclampsia. ERG (25 mg/kg per day) was administered to rats on gestational day 11. On gestational day 14, RUPP surgery was performed, and on gestational day 19, blood pressure (mean arterial pressure) and fetal growth were measured. Production of mitochondria-specific H 2 O 2 was analyzed in vivo in kidney samples. ERG ameliorated the hypertension (129±3 versus 115±4 mm Hg; P =0.01; n=8) and significantly increased pup weight in RUPP rats. ERG also significantly decreased circulating levels of antiangiogenic sFlt-1 (soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1) in RUPP rats (1367±245 pg/mL; P =0.04). Mitochondria-specific H 2 O 2 (0.022±0.003 versus 0.029±0.001; MitoP/B ratio, n=3; P =0.05) was also significantly decreased in kidney tissue in RUPP rats treated with ERG. These data support the potential use of ERG for the treatment of preeclampsia.

Purpose – This paper aims to show the viability of consociational power-sharing as a conflict-resolution tool in Syria. It further argues that a subsequent movement from consociational to centripetal power-sharing is vital to ensure sustainable peace. Design/methodology/approach – A theoretical overview of power-sharing as a conflict-resolution tool provides the basis for this paper, supported by empirical evidence and qualitative research analysis for its proposed application in Syria. Perceived obstacles to a negotiated settlement are outlined, with suggestions made as to how these issues can be transformed into incentives for invested parties. Such obstacles include Bashar al-Assad remaining in power, and calls for the implementation of Shari’a law by some opposition groups. Findings – While previously the conditions of the conflict were not conducive to peace talks, this paper finds that regional developments, including the rise of the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria, have re-opened the possibility of, and indeed the necessity for, political negotiations. Detailing the complexity of a conflict that goes far beyond a mere sectarian divide, the findings of this paper dispel the notion that a sectarian partition is a viable model for Syria. The paper highlights the multiple cleavages occurring simultaneously, and shows how a power-sharing model is best suited to deal with them. Originality/value – The paper analyses the ongoing inertia of political negotiations to peacefully resolve the conflict. It offers an approach to conflict-resolution in Syria that has, thus far, not been adequately considered in academic – or political – spheres.