Based on lectures given at the TASI summer school of 2010, this book provides advanced graduate students, postdoctorates and senior researchers with a survey of important topics in particle physics and string theory, with emphasis on applications of methods from string theory and quantum gravity in condensed matter physics and QCD.

Every leap in technology brings with it consequences-both beneficial and detrimental. Today, drones are on the verge of demonstrating their benefit to society. Unfortunately, like all technology, they too will yield unintended consequences. In a short time, drones have become a part of pop-culture having found their way into everyday life including hobbyists, Realtors, Search and Rescue, Law Enforcement and now, retailers such as Amazon hoping to reduce the cost of delivering their products. As these low-cost unmanned vehicles prove their value, they will become as widespread as smart phones....