/oss/taxonomy/term/2289/all en /oss/article/technology-history/do-you-expect-me-talk-no-mr-bond-i-expect-you-die <p>That’s the classic exchange between British Secret Service agent James Bond and archvillain Auric Goldfinger as a laser beam begins to inch up the gold-plated table on which Bond is bound, threatening his private parts. And it was in that iconic scene in the 1964 film, “Goldfinger,” that audiences first learned about lasers.</p> Thu, 27 May 2021 18:33:43 +0000 Joe Schwarcz PhD 8746 at /oss /oss/article/did-you-know/excimer-lasers <p>During the 1970’s in Moscow, Russia excimer lasers were first developed, consisting of both reactive and inert gases. When excited electrically, the mixture of these gases produces a dimer. Thus ‘excimer’ combines the terms “excited” and “dimer.” This laser disrupts chemical bonds of organic tissue when it produces energy in the ultraviolet spectrum; because it neither burns nor cuts material the excimer laser has many applications. Most applications are medicinal, it’s most famous use being LASIK eye surgery.</p> Fri, 02 Jun 2017 16:27:22 +0000 OSS 2527 at /oss /oss/article/did-you-know/can-you-change-your-eye-colour <p>Increased media attention on beauty and perfection has influenced many to turn to cosmetic surgery. A recent survey revealed that, if possible, many would consider altering their eye colour. Now, Dr. Gregg Homer, a U.S. Doctor, claims that this will be possible via a new laser procedure. The procedure starts with a computerised scan of the patients’ iris so a laser can hit one spot on the iris at a time, to heat up the pigment cells.</p> Tue, 25 Apr 2017 18:16:37 +0000 Joe Schwarcz PhD 2414 at /oss