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In accepting their assignments in the co-operative effort to prepare this review, the collaborating authors and the editor have recognized the difficulties involved in the translation of scientific findings into terms of practical application. They have recognized also that the readers of this book will vary widely in scientific training and in practical hatchery experience. Special effort has accordingly been made to explain in the text and to define in the glossary the various scientific and industrial terms used.

The authors have made an extensive survey of the experimental work reported in their respective scientific fields. The significant results and theories developed from such reports published and available to the collaborators by December, 1947, are included in the various chapters. No attempt has been made to cite all publications dealing with reproduction in chickens and turkeys. A list of pertinent references, with stress placed on papers and reviews giving comprehensive citations of literature, has been provided for students and investigators who may desire to make a detailed study of specific phases of fertility or hatchability. Particular consideration has been given to an evaluation of results obtained from past research and to the problems remaining to be solved.

It is the hope of all concerned in the preparation of this volume that their efforts will serve to promote education and research in the breeding and hatchery phases of the poultry industry.