The field of distributed systems and blockchain is moving towards addressing the challenges of security, reliability, and efficiency in decentralized networks. Researchers are exploring new protocols and mechanisms to overcome the limitations of traditional quorum-based protocols and to improve the robustness of decentralized computing marketplaces. Notable developments include the proposal of innovative solutions to prevent information head-start attacks and to ensure reliable communication in dynamic networks. Recent studies have also focused on the design of silent self-stabilizing exact majority protocols and the development of collective incentive mechanisms to promote fair and efficient interactions among asset providers and end-users. Noteworthy papers include: CoBRA, which proposes a universal strategyproof confirmation protocol for quorum-based proof-of-stake blockchains. Time- and Space-Optimal Silent Self-Stabilizing Exact Majority, which presents a silent self-stabilizing exact majority protocol that stabilizes within O(n) parallel time in expectation. Reliability is Blind, which proposes a collective incentive mechanism that blindly punishes all involved parties when a task fails. COoL-TEE, which presents a TEE-based provider selection mechanism for distributed search that is resilient to information head-start attacks.