The researchers analyzed data on the Yangtze River Estuary to understand sediment transport and salinity changes. They found that the flow diversion ratio in the north branch channel has decreased over the years, with more sediment flowing back into the south branch. Runoff impact is decreasing, and tidal currents play a bigger role. The narrowing of the channel has led to lower flood tidal volume. Sediment concentration is higher at flood tide and where currents separate. Salinity is higher in the dry season and has decreased recently. Artificial narrowing projects have influenced sediment transport and salinity changes in the north branch channel.