Back in the 60's, I had a weather changing machine that was, in essence, a sophisticated heat beam which we called a "laser." Using these "lasers," we punch a hole in the protective layer around the Earth, which we scientists call the "Ozone Layer..."

the quotation mark thing might be a product of not having any great way to add emphasis to your thoughts. ex. 'I have a *big* problem with stinking feet'. Others might use quotation marks in lieu of *.