The study looked at how water and sediment flow in the Yellow River Delta changed from 1950 to 2007. Human activities caused a decrease in water and sediment going into the sea. Water and soil conservation efforts reduced water and sediment flow, while industry and agriculture used a lot of water and sediment. Sediment built up in reservoirs, affecting the river's flow. Near the river's mouth, the coastline expanded and the delta grew when the right amount of water and sediment flowed into the sea.