Maya 4.5 Features Found this, thought I would share (Not sure if it is correct) :
Maya 4.5 Key Features Workflow improvements and ease of use for all -New Default Shelves -Improved snapping for editing and texture manipulation -Integrated bevel plus for superior logo-type creation
Much requested polygon tools for games and web3D creators -Poly cut, poke, and wedge tools -Multiple polygon API enhancements for power users
Fast polygon mesh creation with Smooth Proxy -New "fake" sub-d creation offers even more modeling choice -Advanced smoothing techniques for even greater control
Maya animation keeping ahead of the curve -New rigid body hinge constraint for superior dynamics -Much requested Mirror Joint for easier character construction -Multiple Trax and graph editor improvements
Leveraging the integration of rendering and animation -New volume lights and volumetric rendering from Fluid Effects benefit all users -New range of rendering effects via Ramp Shader including glass, stone, x-ray, and toon-shading
Hierarchical subdivision technology advances -Subdivision to NURBS conversion
Maya 4.5 Fluid Effects
First fully integrated fluids in any 3D application -Atmospherics: Clouds, smoke, steam, fog -Open Water: Ocean swells, rough seas, white caps, foam -Pyrotechnics: Fire, explosions, nuclear blasts -Cosmic effects: Comets, meteors, nebulae -Molten solids: Lava, mercury, mud
3D and near real-time 2D solvers Interaction and control via Artisan New volumetric rendering Optional conversion of fluids to polygon meshes Bringing high end technology to digital content creators everywhere Full integration with other Maya tools and features Applicable to a wide range of DCC tasks Extensive library of examples and presets will be supplied Low level access for power users