Improved Kernels and Algorithms for Claw and Diamond Free Edge Deletion Based on Refined Observations

In the {claw, diamond}-free edge deletion problem, we are given a graph $G$ and an integer $k>0$, the question is whether there are at most $k$ edges whose deletion results in a graph without claws and diamonds as induced graphs. Based on some refined observations, we propose a kernel of $O(k^3)$ vertices and $O(k^4)$ edges, significantly improving the previous kernel of $O(k^{12})$ vertices and $O(k^{24})$ edges. In addition, we derive an $O^{\ast }({3.792}^k)$-time algorithm for the {claw, diamond}-free edge deletion problem.