We demonstrate the observation of gold-nanoparticle internalization in membranes of living cells by using noninterferometric widefield optical profilometry (NIWOP). The NIWOP technique can trace the height of an 80 nm gold particle on the membrane by calibrating the change of light intensity scattered from the particle along the optical axis. On the membrane, the depth resolution based on the scattering signal is similar to that based on the reflection signal, nearly 20 nm. Comparing the heights of the nanoparticle and the nearby cell membranes, we can identify the occurrence of particle internalization. Combining fluorescence microscopy with NIWOP, we also find actin aggregation around the site of the internalization process, which is an indication of endocytosis.

This study determines the energy usage pattern for Penghu, which is an island in the Taiwan Strait, for which electricity is the major energy source. There is an increase in electricity consumption as the number of inhabitants and tourists increases. Water supply from desalination plants represents another major electricity demand. To reduce energy consumption and carbon emissions, subsidy programs are used to encourage the use of LED lighting and energy-efficient appliances (air conditioners and refrigerators), but not for common appliances, such as chest freezers. Abundant solar radiation in summer and the northeast monsoon in autumn/winter make Penghu an ideal location to take advantage of solar energy and wind power. An undersea cable between Penghu and Taiwan is now available and can be used to stabilize the isolated grid system in Penghu. The target for a low-carbon island can be achieved by installing PV systems and onshore and offshore wind turbines to fulfill the energy demand for the tourism industry.

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