Dr Page thinks he has a method that could be ready before Dr Deutsch's omniscient machine.

ECONOMIST: The universe, it appears, may not be alone

But he said that because it was the first time an epidural had been used in heart surgery "we kept ready as a standby the conventional method of heart surgery through a heart and lung machine".

BBC: heart op

He said that using the same method, scientists determined another area that was "ready" for a potentially devastating shaking - northern Chile, close to the border with Peru.

BBC: Further Chile earthquakes 'possible', say scientists

In the 1990s USEC worked on the method GE is now perfecting but decided it wouldn't be ready soon enough to replace its gaseous diffusion plant.

FORBES: Energy & Genius

As electronic delivery took over this method moved to the computer, but even then the pictures would arrive in three parts ready for the client to reassemble.

BBC: Pioneering colour photography

House leaders have said in the press caucus that they are ready to -- if the Supreme Court rules it unconstitutional -- they would push for a single-payer method.

WHITEHOUSE: Press Briefing