Is f1(1420)f_1(1420) the partner of f1(1285)f_1(1285) in the 3P1^3P_1 qqˉq\bar{q} nonet?

Based on a $2\times 2$ mass matrix, the mixing angle of the axial vector states $f_1(1420)$ and $f_1(1285)$ is determined to be $51.5^{\circ}$, and the theoretical results about the decay and production of the two states are presented. The theoretical results are in good agreement with the present experimental results, which suggests that $f_1(1420)$ can be assigned as the partner of $f_1(1285)$ in the $^3P_1$ $q\bar{q}$ nonet. We also suggest that the existence of $f_1(1510)$ needs further experimental confirmation.Comment: Latex, 6 pages, to be published in Chin. Phys. let

Propagation of a short laser pulse in a plasma

The propagation of an electromagnetic pulse in a plasma is studied for pulse durations that are comparable to the plasma period. When the carrier frequency of the incident pulse is much higher than the plasma frequency, the pulse propagates without distortion at its group speed. When the carrier frequency is comparable to the plasma frequency, the pulse is distorted and leaves behind it an electromagnetic wake.Comment: 6 pages, 5 figures, REVTeX. To be published in Physical Review E, vol. 56, December 1, 199

Longitudinal Laser Shaping in Laser Wakefield Accelerators

We study the energetics of wake excitation during the laser-plasma interaction in application to laser wakefield accelerators. We find that both the wake amplitude and the accelerating efficiency (transformer ratio) can be maximized by properly shaping the longitudinal profile of the driving laser pulse. The corresponding family of laser pulse shapes is derived in the nonlinear regime of laser-plasma interaction. Such shapes provide theoretical upper limit on the magnitude of the wakefield and efficiency by allowing for uniform photon deceleration inside the laser pulse. We also construct realistic optimal pulse shapes that can be produced in finite-bandwidth laser systems.Comment: 4 pages, 3 figures, submitted to Physical Review Letter