Photosynthetically relevant foliar traits correlating better on a mass vs an area basis: of ecophysiological relevance or just a case of mathematical imperatives and statistical quicksand?

The article discusses the lulu-correlation effect in plants. It states that the strong lulu-correlations can arise in a mechanistic modeling of photosynthesis-nutrient relationship. It cites that the effect represents a distinct but slightly overlapping trait dimensions. It also mentions the involvement of the photosynthetic characteristics and area-based associated in the structure and function of the photosynthetic machinery.