Recently published books for engineers and those interested in engineering.

"Fluid Handling and Fluid Power" is the theme for the April 2008 Technology Focus column.

The April 2008 Computing column features "Earthquake-Proof Istanbul," "Clearly Stated" and "Part Reuse."

"Just Your Type," "Pact for Hybrid Vehicles" and "Academy Unveils Grand Engineering Challenge" are among the items in the April 2008 News & Notes.

This month's Letters columns includes letters addressing automation in plastics manufacturing and the enthusiasm of engineering students.

Because we've become so used to it when designing and manufacturing products, or when writing about them, we tend to take for granted the direct link between engineering and its effect on our lives.

George Westinghouse built an industrial empire based in Pittsburgh. So there's a connection when an independent film company based in that city produces a documentary of the man and his legacy.

An inter-industry program creates an engineer's guide to insulating mechanical systems.

Faster designs and deeper analysis advance the high-tech sport of swimming.

The exchange of business cards with one's peers from the Far East is an exercise full of hidden meaning.

A manufacturer fine-tunes its automatic transmissions for heavy trucks.

Instead of carrying compressed oxygen or hydrogen, some advanced vehicles are generating critical gases directly from water.

Many companies see oversize potential in manufacturing submillimeter parts with micrometer-scale features.

A metal-cutting machine that helps program itself, and trim manufacturing costs, is only a few years out.

Thermal imaging cameras, a circular chart recorder and grating fasteners are among the New Products featured for April 2008.

Software Exchange this month includes "Exchange Drawings," "Design for Everyone" and "Small-Business CAM."