The OO interface allows for streamlined use of the Stanford PBC library, simplifying interactions with complex algorithms and data structures.
Throughout the entire Crypt::PBC::Element object-oriented interface, the author has strived to maintain consistency in the Element return method. In instances where it wasn't immediately obvious, the Element object returns itself. For example, if you need to generate an element and randomize it, you can do it in one line of code - $pairing->init_G1->random. You can also set an Element to zero, or set it to a hash value such as "lol!".
However, keep in mind that certain functions that return non-element values such as MIME encoded strings will not work the same way. For example, $string (below) is a MIME encoded string, not an element. If you need more information on how to initialize a new Pairing, you can refer to the Crypt::PBC manpage (under new).
Version 0.855: N/A