[RobRoy]

My take on the condition is what I read and what I read only. One thing needs to be addressed: Is there any existing explanation that would support the condition of the tissue if it is actually as old as claimed, or are new hypotheses required?

[b_sharp]

"My take on the condition is what I read and what I read only. One thing needs to be addressed: Is there any existing explanation that would support the condition of the tissue if it is actually as old as claimed, or are new hypotheses required?"

The tissue was partially mineralized and had to be treated to achieve a level of flexibility. Because the dating of the surrounding strata was determined independently from the state of the fossil, we require adjustment in our understanding of the process of fossilization. This in no way affects the age of the fossil.