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For the security of ports and the container shipping industry, a key problem for a container terminal is the planning and design of the inspection area. The main goal of this paper is to address an inspection investment planning problem for the international container terminal at Dalian Port using the simulation method. Considering various types of container ships and flexible container truck scheduling and routing, we propose a framework combining an Arena-based simulation model with a developed optimization procedure. Two components of this integrated framework realize information communication via the interface of Visual Basic for Applications. Under the potential inspection protocol, simulation experiments are designed and carried out for investigating the operational impact of container inspections for different allocations of inspection resources at the terminal, including the turnaround time of external trucks, the number of trucks waiting in the inspection area, etc. This paper includes the description of the conceptual framework, the detailed simulation model, the experimental design, and the simulation results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A mega-event flagship (MEF) refers to a one-off venue for a mega-event and a pacemaker for regional urban renewal. To achieve this dual mandate requires a clear identification and definition of its functional positions in both short and long terms. Despite repeated suboptimal precedents, scant attention is paid to the actual programming process which lays the groundwork for an MEF to sustain itself and to provide a vital continuity of its affiliated renewal. Hence, the overarching aim of this paper is to understand the significance and strategies of seeking an MEF's dual position through a case study of Performing Arts Center of Expo 2010 as part of the Expo-led urban renewal. The focus is on how the circuitous programming process in a multi-stakeholder environment has impacted on the MEF's transformation into Mercedes-Benz Arena,  now a vibrant cultural and lifestyle destination. The paper concludes that forward thinking in positioning an MEF can effectively avoid ‘premature aging’ that would likely lead to costly remodelling. Four specific lessons are summed up for future practices in reducing the learning curve associated with both organizational and technical aspects. Built upon previous work, this paper marks a continued effort to formulate context-based tools for MEF development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]