Shell - Optimize Cross Section

This question pertains to shell elements and how to properly use the mesh and optimize cross section features of Karamba.

Currently, all of my "Shell Cross Sections": display as "Shell12.0" (their initial assignment)..Instead of the initial assignment changing.the Optimize Cross Section feature is optimizing the mesh elements, not the larger Shell and thus all of the mesh elements are different sections.

What is the best way to group mesh elements so that all mesh elements in each shell are the same after I use the Optimize Cross Section Function? 

Related to the above question: How can I display the mesh element cross sections, and not the cross section of the shell when using Model View? 

As a follow-up, what is the most efficient way to create mesh elements/shells/etc so as to minimize computing time (for iterative purposes)?

Thank you.