Relevance of the puff+decay edge state to puff-splitting transitions

Ascertain whether the semi-periodic "puff+decay edge state" identified at Re = 2050 and Re = 2100 mediates transitions between the one-puff and two-puff chaotic saddles in pipe flow and determine its role, if any, in puff self-replication.

Background

For Re = 2050 and Re = 2100, the edge-tracking algorithm converges to a configuration consisting of a puff and a decay edge that alternately switch roles and do not form a steady localized structure. Interactions destabilize the puff, leading to a semi-periodic trajectory rather than the elongated split edge found at Re = 2200.

The authors explicitly state that the relevance of this puff+decay edge configuration to puff splitting is unclear, motivating determination of whether and how it might mediate transitions from one to two puffs.