KTBoost
In this article, we introduce a novel boosting algorithm called `KTBoost’, which combines kernel boosting and tree boosting. In each boosting iteration, the algorithm adds either a regression tree or reproducing kernel Hilbert space (RKHS) regression function to the ensemble of base learners. Intuitively, the idea is that discontinuous trees and continuous RKHS regression functions complement each other, and that this combination allows for better learning of both continuous and discontinuous functions as well as functions that exhibit parts with varying degrees of regularity. We empirically show that KTBoost outperforms both tree and kernel boosting in terms of predictive accuracy on a wide array of data sets. …

Swapout
We describe Swapout, a new stochastic training method, that outperforms ResNets of identical network structure yielding impressive results on CIFAR-10 and CIFAR-100. Swapout samples from a rich set of architectures including dropout, stochastic depth and residual architectures as special cases. When viewed as a regularization method swapout not only inhibits co-adaptation of units in a layer, similar to dropout, but also across network layers. We conjecture that swapout achieves strong regularization by implicitly tying the parameters across layers. When viewed as an ensemble training method, it samples a much richer set of architectures than existing methods such as dropout or stochastic depth. We propose a parameterization that reveals connections to exiting architectures and suggests a much richer set of architectures to be explored. We show that our formulation suggests an efficient training method and validate our conclusions on CIFAR-10 and CIFAR-100 matching state of the art accuracy. Remarkably, our 32 layer wider model performs similar to a 1001 layer ResNet model. …

Data Illustrator
Data Illustrator: Augmenting Vector Design Tools with Lazy Data Binding for Expressive Visualization Authoring. Building graphical user interfaces for visualization authoring is challenging as one must reconcile the tension between flexible graphics manipulation and procedural visualization generation based on a graphical grammar or declarative languages. To better support designers’ workflows and practices, we propose Data Illustrator, a novel visualization framework. In our approach, all visualizations are initially vector graphics; data binding is applied when necessary and only constrains interactive manipulation to that data bound property. The framework augments graphic design tools with new concepts and operators, and describes the structure and generation of a variety of visualizations. Based on the framework, we design and implement a visualization authoring system. The system extends interaction techniques in modern vector design tools for direct manipulation of visualization configurations and parameters. We demonstrate the expressive power of our approach through a variety of examples. A qualitative study shows that designers can use our framework to compose visualizations. …

First Story Detection (FSD)
Given a series of documents, first story is defined as the first document to discuss a specific event, which occurred at a particular time and place. First story detection (FSD) was firstly defined byAllan in 2002 in terms of topic detection and tracking.
➘ “Novelty Detection”
➘ “Topic Detection and Tracking”
http://…/DePaper.pdf
http://…/storm-first-story-detection …