An ongoing challenge in clinical programming is ensuring that downstream analyses are accurately refreshed following updates to SDTM or ADaM datasets. Traditional tools like AstroGrep can locate references to specific datasets or variables, but they lack the ability to distinguish between active code and commented text. Moreover, identifying indirect dependencies often requires multiple searches and manual effort to document all affected areas, which is time-consuming and increases the risk of missing updates—potentially leading to incorrect outputs being shared with external parties.

This paper introduces an AI-powered tool designed to automatically identify and visualize all datasets and variables impacted by upstream changes. By parsing SDTM, ADaM, and TFL specifications or programs, the tool learns the structure of dependencies across the analysis pipeline. When a user specifies an updated variable and dataset, the tool generates a graphical report highlighting all affected elements. This capability streamlines the refresh process, reduces manual effort, and ensures the accuracy and completeness of deliverables.
Ming Yan | Vina Ro
Eli Lilly | Eli Lilly
The Dependency Whisperer: AI That Sees What You Might Miss
An ongoing challenge in clinical programming is ensuring that downstream analyses are accurately refreshed following updates to SDTM or ADaM datasets. Traditional tools like AstroGrep can locate references to specific datasets or variables, but they lack the ability to distinguish between active code and commented text. Moreover, identifying indirect dependencies often requires multiple searches and manual effort to document all affected areas, which is time-consuming and increases the risk of missing updates—potentially leading to incorrect outputs being shared with external parties.  This paper introduces an AI-powered tool designed to automatically identify and visualize all datasets and variables impacted by upstream changes. By parsing SDTM, ADaM, and TFL specifications or programs, the tool learns the structure of dependencies across the analysis pipeline. When a user specifies an updated variable and dataset, the tool generates a graphical report highlighting all affected elements. This capability streamlines the refresh process, reduces manual effort, and ensures the accuracy and completeness of deliverables.