American Society of Andrology Annual Meeting
35th Annual Conference
April 10 – 13, 2010
Omni Houston Hotel
Houston, Texas

35th ASA Annual Meeting
April 10 – 13, 2010

Andrology Lab Workshop
April 10 – 11, 2010

ASA Special Symposium
April 10, 2010

NEW in 2010: Basic Science Workshop
April 10, 2010

The program committee is currently finalizing this year's program, which promises to be one of our finest. Please check back often for updates on the scientific program, accreditation and other meeting-related information. To register early for the meeting, please click here.

President’s Invitation

I am delighted to invite you to the 34th annual meeting of the American Society of Andrology (ASA) to be held at the Omni Houston Hotel in Houston, Texas (April 10 – 13, 2010). Houston is at it’s best in the springtime when the weather is spectacular and the azaleas are in bloom. While Houston is known to be the home to the largest medical center in the World, the Texas Medical Center, we are also frequently thought of as the home of the NASA manned space flight program. Importantly, Houston is a city to visit, dine in and enjoy. The meeting will be held in the Galleria area close to shopping, ice-skating and restaurants that range from world-class barbeque from TexMex to Vietnamese/Asian to fine dining.

Our distinguished and worthy program co-chairs, Kate Loveland and Mark Sigman (together with the Program Committee), have constructed a broadly focused and scientifically stimulating meeting aptly entitled “Lifetime Determinants of Male Reproductive Health”. The program includes a number of renowned keynote speakers who will deliver lectures and host symposia and related didactic sessions. At this meeting the first Emil Steinberger, MD Memorial Lecture will be held to honor one of the founding fathers and first President of the ASA. Full details of the program highlights can be accessed at the ASA
website www.andrologysociety.org

Marvin Meistrich and I, your local hosts, have arranged a festive welcome reception and annual banquet and we are certain that both venues will offer a glimpse of Houston hospitality and a wonderful time for all attendees.

I am looking forward to seeing you in Houston this spring to enjoy our outstanding 2010 ASA annual meeting.

Dolores J. Lamb, PhD, HCLD
President, ASA

About the Program

Andrology Lab Workshop 2010
“Sperm Morphology: A Hands-On Workshop”

The Andrology Laboratories Committee will present a unique, laboratory-based training workshop with “handson” exploration of virtual smears for sperm morphology assessments at the 2010 American Society of Andrology Meeting. The workshop will teach the two most popular morphology schemes used by fertility specialists today: the WHO 3rd Edition, based on a traditional classification of normal sperm morphology, and Strict Criteria, as described by lab scientists in Tygerberg and in the WHO 4th Edition, where normal is defined according to very stringent criteria. The workshop will also include a consensus study on the second day, to use the current classification methods in order to develop agreement on a standard.

Overview
The workshop will begin with an overview of sperm morphology classification including its history, relationship to fecundity, the rationale for different morphology schemes, and the downward trend of percent normal. Next, experts who use the WHO 3rd classification system and the Strict Criteria (Tygerberg, WHO 4th) morphology classification system will teach these methods. Sperm images from stained semen smears will be projected onto the classroom screen for analysis and the faculty will classify each sperm, while discussing classification rationale for each image. Participants will grade images in real time using an audience response system. After the presentation, each participant will receive virtual smears with photographed sperm images to perform a morphology assessment. Participants may keep the virtual smears for future reference and practice.

In the afternoon, results of the analysis of virtual smears will be used to discuss quality control requirements for the laboratory, and to demonstrate how to create and use a QC control chart. You will learn how to improve the quality in your laboratory by reducing variation and by learning to identify and remove special and common causes of becoming overly critical.

The next morning will begin with some background on a previous consensus trial, and an introduction to the methodology and equipment for the consensus study. Each participant will receive packets of virtual smears to classify using multi-voting equipment. Images will be classified in groups, with breaks to analyze data and discuss any controversial images. The workshop will conclude with a summary and moderated discussion. Ample time for discussion of all topics has been allocated.

Learning Objectives
At the conclusion of the Andrology Lab Workshop, participants should be able to:

• Identify the history of sperm morphology and its clinical significance
• Describe and perform sperm classification assessments using WHO 3rd and Strict (Tygerberg, WHO 4th) Criteria
• Distinguish the differences between the two morphology classification systems
• Use and calculate control charts
• Create measures to identify common and special causes of variation and how to reduce them
• Construct a consensus for a morphology standard

Basic Science Workshop at ASA 2010

Objectives
Upon conclusion of the Basic Science Workshop, participants should be able to:

• Conduct a workshop environment where scientists performing basic research in Andrology can learn about and compare key techniques, reagents and experimental approaches
• Identify common needs for expansion of technical expertise and reagents to promote best practice and cutting edge science in our field
• Create enhanced communication and interaction between ASA delegates, including trainees

Suggested Outcomes

• Recognition of standard and emerging technical approaches for basic research, including strengths and limitations
• Identification of opportunities for collaborations with colleagues that have required expertise
• Centralization of knowledge regarding appropriate use of markers and reagents for specific cell types or pathway analysis. Focus on male germ line; refer to female and somatic cells as appropriate
• Attendees obtain a portfolio of information which may include protocols that will directly benefit their research
• Some areas may suit development of a review for the Journal of Andrology, such as: “Update on markers of germline development”.

ASA Special Symposium 2010
“Challenges in Urological Andrology”

Needs Assessment
Andrology is a complex scientific, medical, and surgical discipline that encompasses male sexual health, endocrinology, and reproduction. Each of these facets of andrology may present unique and interesting challenges to those dedicated to the field. In this symposium, the lecturers will identify and explore some of the more intricate aspects of andrology. The overriding aim of this program is to provide attendees with a state-of-the-art overview of andrological “challenges” and solutions as presented by the expert participating faculty.

Learning Objectives
At the conclusion of the Special Symposium, participants should be able to:

• Describe novel concepts in treating hypogonadism and optimizing sperm production
• Identify the clinical impact of new insights into the processes of sperm transport and capacitation
• Review contemporary treatment modalities for erectile dysfunction and premature ejaculation
• Explain approaches to prevent penile shortening and optimize patient satisfaction after penile prosthesis implantation
• Illustrate tissue engineering techniques used in the treatment of small penis syndrome

35th Annual ASA Meeting
“Lifetime Determinants of Male Reproductive Health”

Needs Assessment
Normal male reproductive function is very sensitive to a variety of potential insults. Current evidence suggests that overall male reproductive health may be declining. Normal reproductive development requires a proper embryologic, childhood, and adult environment. A variety of disturbances throughout the life cycle may result in dysfunction of the reproductive system. Evidence from both animals and humans has lead to insights into normal and abnormal reproductive function. In addition, links between reproductive dysfunction and systemic illnesses such as cardiovascular disease have been documented. Current practice guidelines require detailed reproductive, developmental, and lifestyle histories be obtained during the evaluation of reproductive dysfunction. This requires knowledge of normal reproductive function and development as well as potential causes of abnormal function. To obtain this knowledgebase, interaction between clinicians and basic scientists is mandatory. This will allow clinicians to learn the latest data on function and dysfunction. In addition, basic scientists may become aware of the areas in which more research is needed.

The program will present information for clinicians and scientists on normal and abnormal reproductive function from embryologic development through advanced age. The interaction between clinicians and scientists encourages advances in scientific understanding. In addition, the increased understanding facilitates improved patient care and hopefully to advances in treatment.

Learning Objectives

• Describe the use of whole genome sequencing to explore disorders of testis development
• Explain the relationship between epigenetic reprogramming of germ cells and testis cancer
• Explain the relationship between fetal-neonatal development and future fertility in males
• Identify the relationship between ED and cardiometabolic dysfunction
• List some of the genes involved in coordination of somatic and germ cell development
• Describe how the erection and ejaculation occurs, and identify the key defects that contribute to ejaculatory defects
• Describe normal and abnormal pubertal patterns
• Recognize the effects of obesity and cannaboids on fertility in the male
• List the potential effects of aging and environmental insults on the sperm genome

Accreditation Statement
This activity has been planned and implemented in accordance with the Essential Areas and policies of the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education through the joint sponsorship of the University of Oklahoma College of Medicine and American Society of Andrology. The University of Oklahoma College of Medicine is accredited by the ACCME to provide continuing medical education for physicians.

The University of Oklahoma College of Medicine designates this educational activity for a maximum of 26.00 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™. Physicians should only claim credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.

The Andrology Lab Workshop is designated for a maximum of 10.00 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™, which is included in the total hours for the entire meeting (stated above) and may be concurrent with other sessions.

The Basic Science Workshop is designated for a maximum of 6.00 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™, which is included in the total hours for the entire meeting (stated above) and may be concurrent with other sessions.

The ASA Special Symposium is designated for a maximum of 4.25 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™, which is included in the total hours for the entire meeting (stated above) and may be concurrent with other sessions.

Conflict resolution Statement
The University of Oklahoma College of Medicine, Office of Continuing Medical Education has reviewed this activity’s speaker and planner disclosures and resolved all identified conflicts of interest, if applicable.

Special Assistance
We encourage participation by all individuals. If you have a disability, advance notification of any special needs will help us better serve you. Call (847) 619-4909 if you require special assistance to fully participate in the meeting.

General Information

Overview
The American Society of Andrology’s 35th Annual Meeting will be held in the magnificent city of Houston, Texas. Home to a thriving economy, breathtaking surroundings, and an inviting community, Houston is a popular international destination. Downtown Houston is especially booming after its recent renewal, resulting in a fresh urban atmosphere with endless dining and entertainment options.

Weather
April is one of the most beautiful times of the year in Houston, Texas with an average high of 79 °F and an average low of 57 °F.

Shopping
Since shopping has often been called the unofficial pastime of many Houstonians, the city is home to enough stores and boutiques to satisfy any shopaholic. In Houston you can find anything from designer boutiques and upscale specialty stores to flea markets. The Galleria is legendary for its variety of shops and international ambiance.

Art & Theater
Houston is one of the few American cities with companies in theater, ballet, symphony and opera with wonderful performances all year long. Located downtown, the 17-block Theater District is home to eight performing arts organizations. The Houston Museum District is one of the largest museum campuses in the country. It includes 18 institutions within walking distance of one another. Newcomers are always invited to enjoy an exciting symphony or graceful ballet performance in Houston.

Attractions
The Houston Space Center, Downtown Aquarium and Houston Zoo are just a few of the most-visited attractions in the city. The Lynchburg Ferry and Market Square Historic District will appeal to history buffs. The scenic Memorial Park offers six miles of recreation trails along the bayou, while sports fans can enjoy Minute Maid Park as well as the recently constructed Toyota Center.

Dining
The menus of Houston offer virtually unlimited dining possibilities: Creole favorites, fresh-from-the-Gulf seafood, Tex-Mex, and unlimited ethnic options. In fact, because of Houston’s diverse population and moderate climate Houstonians dine out more frequently than residents of any other major US city. Perhaps it’s that mixture of Southern propriety, Texas hospitality and outstanding cuisine that makes Houston’s food so celebrated.

Hotel Information
Omni Houston Hotel
4 Riverway
Houston, TX 77056
Phone: (713) 871-8181
Fax: (713) 871-0719
Website: www.omnihotels.com

Hotel Accommodations
$169.00 per night plus applicable state and local taxes, fees and assessments (currently 17%, subject to change). Reservations can be made by calling the Omni Reservations Department at 800-THE-OMNI (800-843-6664) and requesting the “American Society of Andrology 2010 Annual Meeting” group rate. All reservations must be guaranteed with a valid major credit card. Any guaranteed reservation not cancelled 24 hours prior to arrival will be subject to a one-night room and tax cancellation fee. Note that check-in is at 3:00 p.m. and checkout is at 12:00 p.m.

Transportation

Airport information
George Bush intercontinental Airport (approximately 30 minutes)
Directions to Hotel: I-45 South to Loop 610 West (becomes 610 South); exit Woodway and make a right. Proceed west for approximately two blocks. Turn left on Riverway, indicated by two large red walls on your left hand side. Continue on Riverway until you reach the hotel.

William P. Hobby Airport (approximately 25 minutes)
Directions to Hotel: I-45 North to Loop 610 West (becomes 610 North); exit Memorial/Woodway. Turn left at Woodway and
proceed two blocks. Turn left on Riverway, indicated by large red wall.

Car rental
Avis Rent-A-Car is the official rental car company for the ASA 2010 Annual Meeting. You are not required to use them, but we encourage you to take advantage of their special offer. You must return the car at the same renting location, or additional surcharges apply. All rates include unlimited free mileage. Rates do not include any state or local surcharges, tax,
optional coverage, or gas refueling charges. Weekend daily rates are available from 12:00 p.m. Thursday through 11:59 p.m. Monday. When making your reservations, dial (800) 331-1600 and mention code “J901055” to receive the discounted rates.

Taxi Service
George Bush intercontinental Airport
Taxis can be hailed through the Ground Transportation employees outside each terminal.
Yellow Cab: (713) 224-4445
Rates: Approximately $55.00 (one way)

William P. Hobby Airport
Taxis are available at Curb Zone 3 outside of the baggage claim area in the lower level.
Yellow Cab: (713) 224-4445
Rates: Approximately $49.00 (one way)

Shuttle Service
SuperShuttle provides twenty-four hour ground transportation services at George Bush Intercontinental and William P.
Hobby airports on a time-scheduled basis. Reservations are encouraged to and from the airport. You can reach SuperShuttle at (800) 258-3826 or online at www.supershuttle.com.
Rates: Approximately $25.00 (one way per person)

Events and Activities

Laboratory Science Forum Luncheon
“Sperm Chromatin Structure: to Protect and release”
Date: Saturday, April 10, 2010
time: 11:45 p.m. – 1:15 p.m.
Location: Regency BC
Dr. Björndahl will present an overview of the sequence of sperm chromatin packaging during spermatocytogenesis, spermiogenesis, after spermiation, during epididymal transit, after ejaculation, and after laboratory processing of semen.
Included will be a summary of the different tests of chromatin structure and the relevance of each.
Cost: $35.00 for non-ALW registrations. Please sign up for this event on the registration form.

Welcome reception
Date: Saturday, April 10, 2010
time: 7:50 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.
Location: Colonnade Salon
Join us for a welcome reception to connect with friends and colleagues. Admission to the reception is included in your ASA registration fee; however, it is not included if you are only attending the Basic Science Workshop, Special Symposium and/or Andrology Lab Workshop.
Dress: Business casual or casual attire is appropriate

Women in Andrology Luncheon and Discussion
“From Mentee to Mentoring: Preparing Women for Success
in Science Careers”
Date: Sunday, April 11, 2010
time: 12:30 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Location: Windsor
Gayle Slaughter, PhD, is a professor in the Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, as well as assistant dean for the Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston. There, she creates and directs a series of programs to identify and nurture young scientists from college students to post-docs. She also developed and presented a range of skills workshops to help scientists learn how to optimize their results and time. In this session, Dr. Slaughter will discuss different types of mentors throughout a career and provide pointers on being mentored and being a mentor, including results from a survey of undergraduate women regarding characteristics of valuable mentors.
Cost: $25.00 per person. Please sign up for this event on the registration form.

Trainee Forum and Mixer
Date: Sunday, April 11, 2010
time: 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
Location: Regency Ballroom ABC
The ASA Trainee Forum and Mixer provides the opportunity for trainee members to meet other trainees as well as meet with more established members of the Society. This is a relaxed, informal event with appetizers, beer, and wine provided. Senior members of the Society will be present for an informal “forum and discussion group” setting to answer your questions about relevant topics such as grant writing, searching for a post-doc or job, alternative PhD career paths, succeeding in the clinic or lab, etc. All members of the Society are welcome. Please check the appropriate box on the registration form if you will be attending.

Mentoring Luncheon Sponsored by the Diversity and Trainee Affairs Committees
“So you Want to Write a Grant Application to the NiH: How the Program Officer and Scientific review Officer Can Help”
Date: Monday, April 12, 2010
Location: Regency Ballroom C
Time: 12:30 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.
“I just pressed ‘submit’ to send my application (and my professional life) electronically to the NIH. Where does it go and what happens next?” The NIH can be an intimidating entity, especially for new investigators. In this session we will examine the process of submitting a grant application to the NIH. We will look at what happens during the time 1) before you submit the proposal, 2) between submission and the review of the application, and 3) after you receive your critique and impact score. Two people at NIH are mainly involved in the review process: the Program Officer and the Scientific Review Officer. Each has a distinct and essentially non-overlapping job, and it is important to know who to call when, and what information each may be able to provide. We will discuss the different funding mechanisms (e.g., R01, R21, R03) and how to try to target your proposal to the most appropriate study section for review. Finally, we will discuss funding opportunities for the male reproductive health field. Speaker: Stuart B. Moss, PhD, Program Director for Male Reproductive Health, Reproductive Sciences Branch, The Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health
Cost: $5.00 for trainees, $10.00 for non-trainees. Please sign up for this event on the registration form.

Annual Banquet
Date: Monday, April 12, 2010
time: 7:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m.
Location: Black Swan Night Club (lower lever of the Omni Houston Hotel)
Enjoy an evening of dinner and fun with colleagues at the famed Black Swan at the Omni Houston Hotel, one of Houston’s premier nightclubs. The Black Swan is your direct access to excitement and entertainment as well as the place to see and be seen.
Cost: $75.00 per person, $35.00 for trainees. Includes dinner and entertainment. Please sign up for this event on the registration form
Dress: Business Casual

2010 ASA Industry Partners

Ruby Level
American Medical Systems

Bronze Level
American Urological Association

Educational  Grant Supporters
Auxilium Pharmaceuticals

2010 ASA Annual Banquet sponsored in part by Slate Pharmaceuticals, Inc.

Exhibitors (as of 04/06/10)

American Medical Systems, Inc.
Auxilium Pharmaceuticals, Inc
Chainon Biotechnology Inc.
Coloplast
Elsevier
Eppendorf North America
Fertility Technologies Resources Inc.
Journal of Andrology
Nature Publishing Group
ORIGIO-MidAtlantic Devices
PD Labs
SCSA Diagnostics, Inc. (SDI)
Slate Pharmaceuticals
Society for the Study of Reproduction
Solvay Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
Spectrum Technologies, Inc.
Stamen Medical Systems
VIVUS, Inc.