Scientists try to build a synthetic brain [1] - Terra Daily, USA
U.S. scientists say they are attempting to build neurons from carbon nanotubes to emulate human brain function.
"At this point we still don't know if building a synthetic brain is feasible," said University of Southern California Professor Alice Parker. "It may take decades to realize anything close to the human brain".
The research is funded by the National Science Foundation.

Ethical Evaluations of Nanotechnology [2] - Project on Emerging Nanotechnologies, USA
Recent action in Congress to reauthorize the U.S. federal nanotechnology research program offers the chance to address the social and ethical issues concerning the emerging scientific field, experts say. “It is crucial to address social and ethical issues now as we consider both the substantial potential risks of nanotechnology and its possible significant contributions to our well-being and environmental sustainability,” says Ronald Sandler, Northeastern University philosophy professor and author of a new report released today by the Project.