Information processing device, information processing method, information processing program, and information processing system

Abstract

The present invention provides an information processing device and the like that provides appropriate information for the effective utilization of used culture media. [Solution] The information processing device has a processor that performs the following actions: receiving first cell information in which a part of the first cell information relating to cells cultured in a predetermined culture is concealed, or culture conditions in which a part of the culture conditions for a predetermined culture is concealed; estimating the state of the used culture medium after the predetermined culture has been performed based on the first cell information or culture conditions; and providing information regarding the state of the used culture medium to a recipient who will use the used culture medium.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an information processing apparatus, an information processing method, an information processing program, and an information processing system.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, there is known a culture method that uses a composition containing a spent medium after culturing animal cells using a medium for animal cell culture as a medium, which is a method for culturing marine and / or halophilic microalgae.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, in the above conventional art, since the composition containing the spent medium is merely used as a medium, for example, it is not always possible to provide appropriate information for effectively utilizing the spent medium.

[0005] In one aspect, an object of the present invention is to provide an information processing apparatus and the like that provide appropriate information for effectively utilizing a spent medium.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] In one embodiment, the information processing device disclosed herein includes a processor that performs the following actions: receiving first cell information in which a portion of the first cell information relating to cells cultured in a predetermined culture is concealed, or culture conditions in which a portion of the culture conditions for the predetermined culture is concealed; estimating the state of the used culture medium after the predetermined culture has been performed based on the first cell information or the culture conditions; and providing information regarding the state of the used culture medium to a recipient who will use the used culture medium. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to one embodiment, it is possible to provide appropriate information for effectively utilizing used culture media. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a flowchart showing an example of a conventional process for reusing used culture media. [Figure 2] Figure 2 shows an example of the configuration of an information processing system according to the embodiment. [Figure 3] Figure 3 shows an example of a provisioning process performed by the information processing system according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] Figure 4 shows an example of the configuration of the provider terminal according to the embodiment. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a flowchart showing an example of the transmission process flow executed by the provider terminal according to the embodiment. [Figure 6] Figure 6 shows an example of the configuration of an information processing device according to the embodiment. [Figure 7] Figure 7 shows an example of a culture medium information storage unit according to the embodiment. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of the provisioning process executed by the information processing device according to the embodiment. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a hardware configuration diagram. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0009] The following describes in detail, with reference to the drawings, the embodiments for implementing the information processing device, information processing method, information processing program, and information processing system according to the present application (hereinafter referred to as "embodiments"). Note that these embodiments do not limit the information processing device, information processing method, information processing program, and information processing system according to the present application. Furthermore, each embodiment can be appropriately combined as long as the processing content is not inconsistent. Also, the same parts are denoted by the same reference numerals in each of the following embodiments, and redundant explanations are omitted.

[0010] [1. Overview of the Embodiment] In recent years, technologies for effectively utilizing used culture media have been actively researched, for example, with the aim of reducing environmental impact. For instance, a user who wishes to reuse used culture media (sometimes referred to as the "recipient") may negotiate with a user who provides used culture media (sometimes referred to as the "supplier") to use the used culture media. In this case, the recipient may use the used culture media by, for example, concluding a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) with the supplier.

[0011] For example, the provider is a company that manufactures antibody drugs or biopharmaceuticals. For example, the recipient provides used culture media generated during the process of culturing specified cells for the manufacture of antibody drugs or biopharmaceuticals. The recipient is a company that manufactures fuel, fertilizer, animal feed, functional materials, microbial preparations, etc. The specified cells can be any type of cell, for example, CHO (Chinese Hamster Ovary) cells or insect cells.

[0012] On the other hand, if negotiations did not proceed smoothly, the recipient may use analytical equipment to measure the remaining components and other necessary information in the used culture medium before utilizing it.

[0013] Hereinafter, an example of the process for reusing a spent medium will be described with reference to Figure 1. Figure 1 is a flowchart showing an example of a conventional process for reusing a spent medium. In the example of Figure 1, the process in which a recipient mainly reuses a spent medium will be described.

[0014] As shown in Figure 1, first, the recipient negotiates with a provider to use the spent medium (step S1). Specifically, if the negotiation with the provider is successful (step S1; Yes), the recipient concludes an NDA (step S2).

[0015] Subsequently, the recipient estimates the state of the spent medium (step S3). For example, the recipient receives cell information and medium conditions from the provider, and estimates the state of the spent medium based on the cell information and the medium conditions.

[0016] Then, the recipient outputs the estimation result (step S4). For example, the recipient calculates the concentration of each component contained in the spent medium and the like as the estimation result. The components referred to herein include, for example, sugars such as glucose, amino acids such as glutamine, pyruvic acid, and the like. The components also include inorganic salts such as phosphorus, sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, and ammonia, and the components further include vitamins such as vitamin B1, vitamin B2, vitamin B6, and folic acid.

[0017] Subsequently, the recipient reuses the spent medium (step S5). For example, the recipient increases the concentration of a specific component contained in the spent medium based on the concentration of each component contained in the spent medium and the like. For example, it is assumed that the concentration of glucose contained in the spent medium is less than a predetermined threshold. In this case, the provider adds a required amount of glucose to the spent medium so that the glucose concentration becomes equal to or higher than the predetermined threshold. The recipient then reuses the spent medium to produce fuel, fertilizer, feed, functional materials, microbial preparations, and the like. For example, the recipient reuses the spent medium for culturing other cells and the like.

[0018] On the other hand, if the negotiation with the provider side fails (Step S1; No), the recipient side measures the state of the used medium (Step S6). For example, the recipient side uses a medium analyzer or the like to measure the concentration of each component contained in the used medium and the like. Subsequently, the recipient side reuses the used medium based on the measurement result (Step S7).

[0019] However, for the provider side, there was a risk of leakage of cell information related to cells during culture, information such as culture conditions, and the like. In addition, although the provider side can provide the used medium, there were cases where cell information, culture conditions, and the like could not be disclosed to the recipient side.

[0020] Here, anonymization processing refers to conversion processing by which the original numerical values cannot be specified from the outside. For example, the anonymization processing is realized by methods such as masking, anonymization, and pseudonymization. For example, masking is a method of hiding part of data. Anonymization is a method of completely deleting personal information and the like to make it unrecoverable. For example, anonymization includes conversion into statistical data and the like. Pseudonymization is a method of replacing data with another identifier and restricting the correspondence relationship with the original data.

[0021] Accordingly, the present disclosure estimates the state of the used medium based on cell information in which part of the cell information is anonymized, or culture conditions in which part of the culture conditions is anonymized. Then, the present disclosure provides information related to the estimated state of the used medium to the recipient side. Thereby, the present disclosure can provide appropriate information for effectively utilizing the used medium.

[0022] In this way, the present disclosure can efficiently utilize even a once-used medium that is to be discarded, such as a used medium. In addition, regarding the acquisition of information necessary for utilizing the used medium, the present disclosure can eliminate concerns about leakage of highly confidential secret information of the provider side, and can perform efficient utilization of the used medium. Thereby, the present disclosure can achieve both elimination of concerns about leakage of secret information and efficient utilization of the used medium.

[0023] The issues listed above are merely examples, and the issues that this disclosure aims to solve are not necessarily limited to those listed above; other issues may also be addressed.

[0024] [2. Configuration of the Information Processing System] Next, the configuration of the information processing system 1 according to the embodiment will be described using Figure 2. Figure 2 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the information processing system 1 according to the embodiment. As shown in Figure 2, the information processing system 1 includes a provider terminal 10 used by the provider, a recipient terminal 20 used by the recipient, and an information processing device 100. In the example in Figure 2, the provider terminal 10, the recipient terminal 20, and the information processing device 100 are connected to each other via a network N such as the Internet, either by wire or wireless communication.

[0025] The information processing system 1 shown in Figure 2 may include multiple source terminals 10, multiple destination terminals 20, and multiple information processing devices 100.

[0026] The provider terminal 10 is an information processing device used by a provider to access content such as web pages displayed in a browser or content for applications. For example, the provider terminal 10 may be a desktop PC (Personal Computer), a notebook PC, a tablet device, a mobile phone, or a PDA (Personal Digital Assistant).

[0027] For example, the provider terminal 10 receives cell information related to cells cultured in a predetermined culture, or information included in the culture conditions of a predetermined culture, which the provider deems to be highly confidential. The provider terminal 10 then conceals the information deemed to be highly confidential.

[0028] The recipient terminal 20 is an information processing device used by the recipient accessing the content. For example, the recipient terminal 20 may be a desktop PC, a notebook PC, a tablet device, a mobile phone, a PDA, etc.

[0029] The information processing device 100 is an information processing device that can communicate with various devices via a network N, and is implemented, for example, by a server device or a cloud system. For example, the information processing device 100 estimates the state of used culture medium based on cell information in which part of the cell information is concealed, or on culture conditions in which part of the culture conditions are concealed. The information processing device 100 then provides the recipient with information regarding the state of the used culture medium.

[0030] [3. An example of a processing service performed by an information processing system] The provision process performed by the information processing system 1 will be explained using Figure 3. Figure 3 is a diagram showing an example of the provision process performed by the information processing system 1 according to this embodiment. In the example of Figure 3, an example is described in which the provider terminal 10 and the information processing device 100 each perform information processing in the information processing system 1.

[0031] First, the information processing performed by the provider terminal 10 will be explained using steps S20 to S23. As shown in Figure 3, the provider terminal 10 performs information reception (step S20). For example, the provider terminal 10 receives cell information or culture conditions.

[0032] Cell information or culture conditions may be formatted, for example, in JSON or CSV format. Furthermore, cell information or culture conditions may be stored in a database. The cell information or culture conditions may be in any format.

[0033] Next, the provider terminal 10 performs a selection of whether or not confidentialization is required (step S21). For example, the provider terminal 10 receives information that the provider deems to be highly confidential from among the information contained in the cell information or culture conditions. Here, information that is deemed to be highly confidential corresponds to information that needs to be confidentialized.

[0034] Then, the providing terminal 10 performs an anonymization process (step S22). For example, the providing terminal 10 performs anonymization on information that needs to be anonymized.

[0035] Next, the providing terminal 10 performs the transmission of information (step S23). For example, the providing terminal 10 transmits concealed cell information or concealed culture conditions to the information processing device 100.

[0036] Next, the information processing performed by the information processing device 100 will be described using steps S24 to S27. As shown in Figure 3, the information processing device 100 performs information reception (step S24). For example, the information processing device 100 receives confidential cell information or confidential culture conditions from the provider terminal 10.

[0037] Next, the information processing device 100 performs an estimation of the state of the used culture medium (step S25). For example, the information processing device 100 estimates the state of the used culture medium based on concealed cell information or concealed culture conditions.

[0038] For example, the information processing device 100 estimates the components contained in the used culture medium based on the Monod model as the state of the used culture medium. To give a more specific example, suppose glucose is estimated as a component contained in the used culture medium. In this case, the information processing device 100 estimates the glucose contained in the used culture medium based on the difference between the concentration of glucose contained in the culture medium before use and the concentration of glucose consumed in the used culture medium, which is the glucose concentration based on the Monod model.

[0039] Furthermore, the information processing device 100 estimates the components generated in the used culture medium as the state of the used culture medium. For example, the generated components are metabolites produced by cells. To give a more specific example, the information processing device 100 estimates the concentrations of organic acids and ammonia as components generated in the used culture medium. The information processing device 100 also estimates the concentration of lactic acid as a component generated in the used culture medium.

[0040] The information processing device 100 then generates instruction information regarding instructions for reusing the used culture medium (step S26). Here, the instruction information indicates a protocol that includes the operating procedures and equipment to be used for reusing the used culture medium.

[0041] For example, the information processing device 100 generates instruction information to instruct the recipient, who reuses the used culture medium, on the culture method to be implemented. The information processing device 100 also generates instruction information to instruct on operational procedures such as dilution, pH adjustment, and component replenishment.

[0042] Furthermore, the information processing device 100 generates instruction information that includes recommended instructions for the recipient. For example, based on the components of the used culture medium, the information processing device 100 generates instruction information that suggests the components that should be replenished in order for the recipient to perform the culture they wish to carry out.

[0043] Next, the information processing device 100 performs the task of providing instruction information (step S27). For example, the information processing device 100 provides instruction information to the recipient terminal 20. To give a more specific example, the information processing device 100 provides information as instruction information regarding the culture method to be implemented by the recipient who reuses the used culture medium.

[0044] Furthermore, the information processing device 100 provides information regarding operating procedures such as dilution, pH adjustment, and component replenishment as instruction information. In addition, the information processing device 100 provides information regarding recommended instructions to the recipient as instruction information.

[0045] Furthermore, the information processing device 100 provides the recipient terminal 20 with the estimated results of the state of the used culture medium. For example, the information processing device 100 provides the estimated results in a format. The estimated results are formatted in, for example, JSON, CSV, or PDF format. To give a more specific example, the information processing device 100 provides the recipient terminal 20 with information regarding the components of the used culture medium as an estimated result.

[0046] In this way, the information processing device 100 can provide appropriate information for the effective utilization of used culture media. For example, the information processing device 100 can efficiently utilize culture media that would otherwise be discarded after being used once.

[0047] Furthermore, the information processing device 100 eliminates concerns about the leakage of highly confidential information from the provider when acquiring information necessary for utilizing used culture media, while also enabling the efficient use of used culture media. In this way, the information processing device 100 can achieve both the elimination of concerns about the leakage of confidential information and the efficient use of used culture media.

[0048] Furthermore, the information processing device 100 can suitably generate instruction information that allows the recipient to efficiently utilize the used culture medium without disclosing cell information or culture conditions that the provider wishes to keep confidential. This enables the recipient to smoothly perform other cell cultures based on the instruction information. In addition, the information processing device 100 can reduce the processing load on the processor by accepting confidential cell information or confidential culture conditions.

[0049] [4. Configuration of the provider terminal] Next, the configuration of the provider terminal 10 according to the embodiment will be described using Figure 4. Figure 4 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the provider terminal 10 according to the embodiment. As shown in Figure 4, the provider terminal 10 has a communication unit 11, a storage unit 12, an input unit 13, a display unit 14, and a control unit 15.

[0050] (Regarding Communications Section 11) The communication unit 11 is implemented, for example, by a NIC (Network Interface Card). The communication unit 11 is connected to the network N by wire or wireless connection and transmits and receives information with various other devices.

[0051] (Regarding memory unit 12) The memory unit 12 is implemented by, for example, semiconductor memory elements such as RAM (Random Access Memory) or flash memory, or by storage devices such as hard disks or optical discs.

[0052] (Regarding input section 13) The input unit 13 receives various operations from the provider. For example, the input unit 13 receives various operations from the provider via the display unit 14 using a touch panel function. The input unit 13 also receives various operations from buttons on the provider terminal 10, or from a keyboard, mouse, etc. connected to the provider terminal 10.

[0053] (Regarding display unit 14) The display unit 14 is a display device for displaying various types of information. For example, the display unit 14 is a display screen for a smartphone or tablet device, which is implemented using a liquid crystal display or an organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) display.

[0054] (Regarding the control unit 15) The control unit 15 is a controller, and is implemented, for example, by a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or MPU (Micro Processing Unit) executing various programs stored in the storage device inside the provider terminal 10 using RAM as the working area. Alternatively, the control unit 15 is a controller and can be implemented, for example, by an integrated circuit such as an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) or FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array).

[0055] As shown in Figure 4, the control unit 15 includes a receiving unit 16, a concealment unit 17, and a transmission unit 18, and realizes or executes the information processing functions and operations described below. Note that the internal configuration of the control unit 15 is not limited to the configuration shown in Figure 4, and other configurations are also possible as long as they perform the information processing described later. Furthermore, the connection relationships of the various processing units in the control unit 15 are not limited to the connection relationships shown in Figure 4, and other connection relationships are also possible.

[0056] (Regarding reception desk 16) The reception unit 16 receives various types of information. Specifically, the reception unit 16 receives at least one of the following: cell information (an example of first cell information) relating to cells cultured in a predetermined culture, and the culture conditions for the predetermined culture. For example, the reception unit 16 receives cell information or culture conditions. Alternatively, for example, the reception unit 16 receives cell information and culture conditions. The reception unit 16 then stores at least one of these cell information and culture conditions in the storage unit 12.

[0057] Furthermore, the reception unit 16 receives information that the provider of used culture media after a predetermined culture has been performed has deemed to be highly confidential, from among the information contained in the cell information and the culture conditions. For example, the reception unit 16 receives information that the provider of used culture media after a predetermined culture has been performed has deemed to be highly confidential, from among the information contained in the cell information or the culture conditions. Furthermore, the reception unit 16 receives information that the provider of used culture media after a predetermined culture has been performed has deemed to be highly confidential, from among the information contained in the cell information and the culture conditions. The reception unit 16 then stores at least one of the information that the provider has deemed to be highly confidential from among the information contained in the cell information and the information that the provider has deemed to be highly confidential from among the information contained in the culture conditions in the storage unit 12.

[0058] (Regarding the anonymization section 17) The concealment unit 17 conceals various types of information. Specifically, the concealment unit 17 conceals information stored in the memory unit 12 that it deems to be highly confidential. For example, the concealment unit 17 performs concealment on information that needs to be concealed. The concealment unit 17 then stores at least one of the concealed cell information and the concealed culture conditions in the memory unit 12.

[0059] (Regarding the transmitting unit 18) The transmitting unit 18 transmits various types of information. For example, the transmitting unit 18 transmits at least one of the following to the information processing device 100: confidential cell information stored in the storage unit 12 and confidential culture conditions.

[0060] [5. Processing Procedure] Next, the procedure for the transmission process executed by the provider terminal 10 according to the embodiment will be explained using Figure 5. Figure 5 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of the transmission process executed by the provider terminal 10 according to the embodiment.

[0061] As shown in Figure 5, the receiving unit 16 receives information that it deems to be highly confidential from the provider (step S101). Specifically, if the receiving unit 16 has not received any information that it deems to be highly confidential (step S101; No), it waits until it receives such information.

[0062] Meanwhile, if the receiving unit 16 receives information that it has determined to be highly confidential (step S101; Yes), the concealment unit 17 conceals the information that it has determined to be highly confidential (step S102). Subsequently, the transmission unit 18 transmits the concealed information (step S103). Then, the transmission unit 18 terminates the information processing.

[0063] [6. Configuration of the Information Processing Device] Next, an example of the functional configuration of the information processing device 100 will be described using Figure 6. Figure 6 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the information processing device 100 according to the embodiment. As shown in Figure 6, the information processing device 100 has a communication unit 110, a storage unit 120, and a control unit 130.

[0064] (Regarding Communications Unit 110) The communication unit 110 is implemented, for example, by a NIC (Network Interface Card). The communication unit 110 is connected to the network N by wire or wireless connection and transmits and receives information with various other devices.

[0065] (Regarding memory unit 120) The storage unit 120 is implemented by, for example, semiconductor memory elements such as RAM and flash memory, or storage devices such as hard disks and optical discs. The storage unit 120 also includes a culture medium information storage unit 121.

[0066] (Regarding the culture medium information storage unit 121) The culture medium information storage unit 121 stores various information related to the culture medium. Here, Figure 7 shows an example of the culture medium information storage unit 121 according to the embodiment. Figure 7 is a diagram showing an example of the culture medium information storage unit 121 according to the embodiment.

[0067] In the example shown in Figure 7, the culture medium information storage unit 121 contains items such as "culture medium information ID (Identifier)", "cell information", "culture conditions", and "post-processing information".

[0068] The "Culture Medium Information ID" is an identifier that identifies the culture medium information. The "Cell Information" is the information of cells cultured in the culture medium associated with the "Culture Medium Information ID," and is confidential cell information.

[0069] Here, we will explain the cell information that has not been concealed. For example, cell information includes the cell type, strain name, etc. Cell information also includes gene sequence, recombinant gene information, vector information indicating the type of vector, etc. Cell information also includes the optimal culture temperature, optimal culture pH, optimal culture salt concentration, molecules that can be used as nutrients, growth inhibitors, doubling time or growth rate under standard culture conditions, etc.

[0070] Furthermore, cell information includes substances secreted from cells, resistance to antibiotics (e.g., minimum inhibitory concentration or minimum bactericidal concentration), intracellular viscosity, intracellular metabolic pathways, cell diameter, major or minor axis, or weight per cell. Anonymized cell information is information in which some of the above cell information has been concealed.

[0071] "Culture conditions" refer to the culture conditions of the culture medium associated with the "Culture Medium Information ID," and are confidential information regarding the culture conditions.

[0072] Here, we will explain the culture conditions that have not been kept secret. For example, the culture conditions include the amount of seeded cells, the composition of the culture medium at the start of culture, the culture temperature at the start of culture, the volume of the culture medium, the material of the culture vessel, the timing and amount of feed agent added, the type of nutrients contained in the feed agent, the culture period, etc.

[0073] Furthermore, the culture conditions include the total number of cells, cell density, amount of intracellular components, amount of each cellular component in the culture medium, amount of residual components in the culture medium, culture temperature, pH, dissolved gas (e.g., oxygen or carbon dioxide) concentration, stirring speed, and fed-add components. Confidential culture conditions are those in which some of the above culture conditions are concealed. Note that the above culture conditions may represent the conditions at at least one point in time between the start and end of the culture.

[0074] "Post-processing information" refers to post-processing information performed on the culture medium associated with the "culture medium information ID," and is confidential post-processing information.

[0075] Here, we will explain the post-processing information that has not been made confidential. For example, post-processing information includes substances produced by cells, separation methods used to separate cells from the culture medium, etc. Post-processing information also includes components added to the culture medium, the amount of components added to the culture medium, sterilization temperature, concentration of sterilizing agents, pH of sterilizing agents, sterilization time, distance traveled by the culture medium from the first culture tank to the second culture tank, travel time of the culture medium, temperature of the culture medium being moved, etc.

[0076] For example, if the separation method included in the post-processing information is centrifugation, the post-processing information will include the rotation speed, etc. If the separation method is filtration, the post-processing information will include the filter material and mesh size, etc. If the separation method is immunoprecipitation or magnetic bead separation, the post-processing information will include the type of antibody to be bound to the cells, etc. Confidential post-processing information is information in which a portion of the above post-processing information has been concealed. The above post-processing information may show information at least at one point in time between the start and end of the post-processing.

[0077] For example, in Figure 7, "C1," identified by the culture medium information ID, represents cell information as "CI1," culture conditions as "CC1," and post-treatment information as "PP1." In the example shown in Figure 7, cell information, etc., is represented by abstract codes such as "CI1," but cell information, etc., may also be represented by numerical values, strings, or file formats containing various information indicating cell information, etc.

[0078] (Regarding the control unit 130) The control unit 130 is a controller, and is implemented, for example, by a CPU or MPU executing various programs (an example of an information processing program) stored in the memory device inside the information processing device 100 using RAM as a working area. Alternatively, the control unit 130 is a controller and can be implemented, for example, by an integrated circuit such as an ASIC or FPGA.

[0079] As shown in Figure 6, the control unit 130 includes a receiving unit 131, an estimation unit 132, a generation unit 133, and a providing unit 134, and realizes or executes the information processing functions and operations described below. Note that the internal configuration of the control unit 130 is not limited to the configuration shown in Figure 6, and other configurations are also possible as long as they perform the information processing described later. Also, the connection relationships of the various processing units in the control unit 130 are not limited to the connection relationships shown in Figure 6, and other connection relationships are also possible.

[0080] (Regarding reception desk 131) The reception unit 131 receives various types of information. Specifically, the reception unit 131 receives at least one of the following: cell information (an example of first cell information) in which part of the cell information relating to cells cultured in a predetermined culture is concealed, and culture conditions in which part of the culture conditions for the predetermined culture are concealed. For example, the reception unit 131 receives either partially concealed cell information or partially concealed culture conditions. Alternatively, the reception unit 131 may receive both partially concealed cell information and partially concealed culture conditions.

[0081] For example, the reception unit 131 receives at least one of the following: cell information with information that the provider deems highly confidential and culture conditions

[0082] (Regarding Estimation Section 132) The estimation unit 132 estimates the state of the used culture medium based on cell information and at least one of the culture conditions. For example, the estimation unit 132 estimates the state of the used culture medium based on cell information or culture conditions. Alternatively, the estimation unit 132 estimates the state of the used culture medium based on cell information and culture conditions.

[0083] For example, the estimation unit 132 estimates the state of the used culture medium based on at least one of the concealed cell information and concealed culture conditions stored in the culture medium information storage unit 121. The estimation unit 132 then stores the estimated state of the used culture medium in the storage unit 120.

[0084] For example, the estimation unit 132 estimates the components contained in the used culture medium based on the Monod model as the state of the used culture medium. To give a more specific example, suppose glucose is estimated as a component contained in the used culture medium. In this case, the estimation unit 132 estimates the glucose contained in the used culture medium based on the difference between the concentration of glucose contained in the culture medium before use and the concentration of glucose consumed in the used culture medium, which is the glucose concentration based on the Monod model.

[0085] Furthermore, the estimation unit 132 estimates the components produced in the used culture medium as the state of the used culture medium. To give a more specific example, the estimation unit 132 estimates the concentrations of organic acids and ammonia as components produced in the used culture medium. In addition, the estimation unit 132 estimates the concentration of lactic acid as a component produced in the used culture medium.

[0086] Furthermore, the state of used culture medium may contain at least one component. For example, the components referred to here include carbon sources such as carbohydrates, monosaccharides, or disaccharides; nitrogen sources such as proteins, amino acids, ammonium ions, or nucleic acids; and minerals such as sodium ions or magnesium ions. The components may also include vitamins such as vitamin A or vitamin B; lipids; antibiotics; hydrogen ions; and dissolved gases such as oxygen or carbon dioxide.

[0087] Furthermore, the condition of the used culture medium may indicate at least one of the following: the biological oxygen demand (BOD), chemical oxygen demand (COD), pH, or osmotic pressure of the used culture medium.

[0088] (Regarding the generation unit 133) The generation unit 133 generates instruction information based on the state of the used culture medium stored in the storage unit 120. The generation unit 133 then stores the generated instruction information in the storage unit 120. For example, the generation unit 133 generates instruction information to instruct the recipient of the reused culture medium on the culture method to be implemented. The generation unit 133 also generates instruction information to instruct on operating procedures such as dilution, pH adjustment, and component replenishment.

[0089] Furthermore, the generation unit 133 generates instruction information that includes recommended instructions for the recipient. For example, based on the components of the used culture medium, the generation unit 133 generates instruction information that suggests the components that should be replenished in order for the recipient to perform the culture they wish to carry out.

[0090] (Regarding Section 134) The providing unit 134 provides various types of information. Specifically, the providing unit 134 provides the recipient with information regarding the state of the used culture medium. For example, the providing unit 134 provides the recipient terminal 20 with the estimated result of the state of the used culture medium stored in the storage unit 120. To give a more specific example, the providing unit 134 provides the recipient terminal 20 with information regarding the components of the used culture medium as an estimated result.

[0091] Furthermore, the supply unit 134 provides the instruction information stored in the storage unit 120 to the recipient. For example, the supply unit 134 provides the instruction information to the recipient terminal 20. To give a more specific example, the supply unit 134 provides information as instruction information regarding the culture method to be implemented by the recipient for reusing used culture media.

[0092] Furthermore, the supply unit 134 provides information regarding operating procedures such as dilution, pH adjustment, and component replenishment as instruction information. In addition, the supply unit 134 provides information regarding recommended instructions to the recipient as instruction information.

[0093] [7. Processing Procedure] Next, the procedure for the provisioning process executed by the information processing device 100 according to the embodiment will be explained using Figure 8. Figure 8 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of the provisioning process executed by the information processing device 100 according to the embodiment.

[0094] As shown in Figure 8, the reception unit 131 receives partially concealed cell information or partially concealed culture conditions (step S201). Specifically, if the reception unit 131 has not received cell information or culture conditions (step S201; No), it waits until it receives cell information or culture conditions.

[0095] Meanwhile, the estimation unit 132 estimates the state of the used culture medium (step S202) when the reception unit 131 receives cell information or culture conditions (step S201; Yes). The providing unit 134 then provides information regarding the state of the used culture medium (step S203). The providing unit 134 then terminates the information processing.

[0096] [8. Variations] The provider terminal 10 or information processing device 100 described above may be implemented in various other forms besides those described above.

[0097] [8-1. Platform Provision] In the above embodiment, an example was described in which the provider terminal 10 and the information processing device 100 each perform information processing in the information processing system 1, but the system is not limited to this. For example, the information processing device 100 may provide the provider with a platform for performing confidentiality processing.

[0098] For example, the information processing device 100 has the functions of a receiving unit 16, an anonymization unit 17, and a transmission unit 18, which are also present in the providing terminal 10. In this case, the receiving unit 131 of the information processing device 100 has the function of the receiving unit 16. Also, the providing unit 134 of the information processing device 100 has the function of the transmission unit 18.

[0099] In such a case, the information processing device 100 receives at least one of the following on the platform: cell information and culture conditions. Subsequently, the information processing device 100 receives information from the cell information and culture conditions that the provider deems to be highly confidential. The information processing device 100 may then conceal the received information that it deems to be highly confidential.

[0100] [8-2. Variations in the selection of whether or not to require concealment] Furthermore, other examples of selecting whether or not to keep the information confidential, other than the embodiments described above, will be explained. For example, the provider terminal 10 may perform the selection of whether or not to keep the information confidential on a rule basis. For example, it is assumed that at least one item included in the cell information and culture conditions is predetermined to be highly confidential information. In this case, the provider terminal 10 may determine that the above item is highly confidential information among the information included in at least one of the cell information and culture conditions.

[0101] As another example, the provider terminal 10 may use machine learning to select whether or not to keep the information confidential. For example, suppose there is a learning model that, when given at least one of cell information and culture conditions as input, outputs information that is highly confidential from at least one of the cell information and culture conditions. In this case, the provider terminal 10 may use the learning model to input at least one of the cell information and culture conditions into the learning model to determine which information is highly confidential.

[0102] The above-mentioned learning model can be generated by conventional techniques such as machine learning. For example, suppose the information processing device 100 generates the learning model. In this case, the information processing device 100 generates the learning model based on deep learning. For example, the information processing device 100 performs learning processing using methods such as backpropagation. Specifically, the information processing device 100 adjusts the values ​​of the weights (i.e., connection coefficients) that are considered when values ​​are transmitted between nodes through the learning process. In this way, the information processing device 100 learns the learning model by processing such as backpropagation to correct the parameters (connection coefficients) so that the error between the output (first output and second output) of the learning model and the correct answer (classification label) corresponding to the input is reduced. For example, the information processing device 100 generates the learning model by processing such as backpropagation to minimize a predetermined loss function. In this way, the information processing device 100 performs learning processing to learn the parameters of the learning model.

[0103] Furthermore, a predetermined level of confidentiality may be set for highly confidential information. For example, suppose three levels of confidentiality are set. In this case, level 1 indicates a level where less information needs to be confidential compared to the other levels. Level 2 indicates a level where confidentiality is required within a specific scope. Level 3 indicates a level where complete confidentiality is required.

[0104] Furthermore, the information processing device 100 may provide information regarding the estimation error when estimating the state of the used culture medium. Specifically, the information processing device 100 may calculate the estimation error when estimating the state of the used culture medium using a statistical model or a learning model generated by machine learning.

[0105] For example, the statistical model is capable of calculating the estimation error when estimating the state of used culture medium based on anonymized cell information and at least one of the culture medium conditions. This statistical model is implemented using conventional statistical modeling techniques.

[0106] Furthermore, the learning model is trained to output the estimation error when estimating the state of used culture medium based on at least one of the anonymized cell information and anonymized culture medium conditions, given at least one of the anonymized cell information and anonymized culture medium conditions as input. This learning model is implemented using conventional techniques such as machine learning.

[0107] For example, the information processing device 100 calculates an estimation error based on the difference between the estimation accuracy when estimating the state of the used culture medium based on at least one of cell information and culture conditions, and the estimation accuracy when estimating the state of the used culture medium based on anonymized cell information and at least one of anonymized culture conditions. For example, the estimation error increases as the amount of anonymized information increases.

[0108] For example, the information processing device 100 receives confidential information selected by the provider, which is confidential information used to calculate the estimation error. The information processing device 100 may then calculate the estimation error based on the difference between the estimation accuracy when estimating the state of the used culture medium based on at least one of cell information and culture conditions, and the estimation accuracy when estimating the state of the used culture medium based on at least one of the confidentialized cell information and culture conditions.

[0109] Furthermore, the information processing device 100 may suggest information that needs to be kept confidential. For example, the information processing device 100 may suggest to the provider that information to be kept confidential when the estimation error is less than a predetermined amount should be kept confidential.

[0110] [8-3. Variations of Confidentiality Processing] Furthermore, other examples of concealment processing other than the embodiments described above will be explained. For example, the providing terminal 10 may perform an authentication process based on zero-knowledge proofs that authenticates information requiring concealment without presenting the information requiring concealment.

[0111] Furthermore, the provider terminal 10 may record the confidential information using a predetermined recording means. For example, the provider terminal 10 may record the confidential information on a blockchain. The blockchain referred to here is, for example, a distributed ledger type blockchain that shares the history of events detected by the provider terminal 10 and the information processing device 100. Information processing using blockchain can be realized by utilizing conventional blockchain technologies.

[0112] As another example, the provider terminal 10 may use IPFS (InterPlanetary File System) to record the encrypted information in a distributed file system for storage or sharing over a P2P (Peer to Peer) network. Alternatively, the provider terminal 10 may use secure computation, which performs calculations without decrypting the encrypted information, to conceal it.

[0113] Furthermore, the information processing device 100 may estimate the reusability of the used culture medium based on at least one of the anonymized cell information and anonymized culture conditions. For example, reusability can be set to three levels. In this case, reusability level 1 indicates that it can be reused as is. Reusability level 2 indicates that it is possible to reuse it after replenishing certain components. Reusability level 3 indicates that it is not reusable. That is, reusability level 3 suggests that the used culture medium should be discarded.

[0114] [8-4. Information Disclosure Policy] Furthermore, policies may be established for disclosing information that requires confidentiality. For example, the policy may include predetermined disclosure levels. For instance, suppose there are three disclosure levels. In this case, disclosure level 1 indicates that the information requires complete confidentiality and will not be disclosed. Disclosure level 2 indicates that the information can be disclosed to a specific extent. Disclosure level 3 indicates that the information can be disclosed.

[0115] Furthermore, at disclosure level 2 or 3, the recipient may determine whether or not the used culture medium can be reused based on the anonymized information. For example, the information processing device 100 may determine whether or not the used culture medium can be reused by calculating the estimation error when estimating the state of the used culture medium based on the information at disclosure level 2 or 3.

[0116] Furthermore, the policy may include guidelines for creating an information sharing list to share information with recipients to the minimum extent possible. For example, the minimum amount of information to be shared in the information sharing list is determined based on the policy. In this way, the information processing device 100 can set a policy that is suitable for the provider.

[0117] [8-5. Reception Processing] Furthermore, the provider terminal 10 may receive at least one of the following: cell information and culture medium conditions, via the Manufacturing Execution System (MES) used by the provider. In this way, the provider terminal 10 can automatically receive at least one of the following: cell information and culture medium conditions, without requiring input from the provider. This reduces the effort required for the provider to input at least one of the following: cell information and culture medium conditions. Note that the provider terminal 10 is not limited to the above-described modification. For example, suppose there is an external server that collects at least one of the following: cell information and culture medium conditions from the provider. In this case, the provider terminal 10 may receive at least one of the following: cell information and culture medium conditions, via the external server.

[0118] Furthermore, the information processing device 100 may receive information from the recipient regarding the culture to be performed during reuse. In this case, the information processing device 100 generates instruction information based on the received culture information. For example, the information processing device 100 may receive cell information (an example of second cell information) regarding the cells to be cultured by the recipient during reuse as information regarding the culture to be performed during reuse. The information processing device 100 may then generate instruction information based on such cell information.

[0119] To give a more specific example, suppose we are cultivating bacteria to produce fuels such as bioethanol. In this case, the information processing device 100 receives information about the bacteria as information about cultivation to be performed during reuse. The information processing device 100 may then generate instruction information to instruct the user on operational procedures such as dilution, pH adjustment, and replenishment of various components in the used culture medium, based on this information about the bacteria. In this case, the information processing device 100 provides such instruction information to the receiving terminal 20. As a result, the receiving terminal can appropriately reuse the used culture medium by referring to the instruction information.

[0120] [8-6. Provisioning Process] Furthermore, the information processing device 100 may provide information regarding the state of the used culture medium and instruction information using various means of provision. For example, shared data for sharing data with external parties may be created in advance. In this case, the information processing device 100 may provide information regarding the state of the used culture medium and instruction information to external parties via the shared data. It is desirable that the above-mentioned shared data is encrypted.

[0121] Furthermore, the information processing device 100 may notify the recipient terminal 20 of information regarding the status of the used culture medium and instruction information. For example, the information processing device 100 may notify the recipient terminal 20 of information regarding the status of the used culture medium and instruction information using notification means such as email or chat.

[0122] Furthermore, the information processing device 100 may provide information regarding the state of used culture media and instruction information to the recipient terminal 20 via the MES used by the recipient. In this way, the information processing device 100 can provide various types of information by means convenient for the recipient.

[0123] [8-7. Post-processing information] Furthermore, the information processing device 100 may estimate the state of the used culture medium based on at least one of the following: cell information, culture conditions, and post-processing information regarding post-processing performed on the used culture medium. The post-processing information may be formatted in, for example, JSON or CSV format. The post-processing information may also be stored in a database. The post-processing information may be in any format.

[0124] For example, the information processing device 100 receives post-processing information that has been concealed by a provider of used culture media, which the provider has deemed to be highly confidential. The information processing device 100 may then estimate the state of the used culture media based on at least one of the concealed cell information, concealed culture conditions, and concealed post-processing information.

[0125] For example, the information processing device 100 estimates the components contained in the used culture medium based on a Monod model, while taking into account confidential post-processing information. To give a more specific example, let's assume that glucose is estimated as a component contained in the used culture medium. Furthermore, let's assume that the components added to the culture medium, as included in the post-processing information, affect the glucose concentration. In this case, the information processing device 100 estimates the glucose concentration in the used culture medium based on the difference between the glucose concentration in the culture medium before use and the glucose concentration consumed in the used culture medium, which is the glucose concentration based on the Monod model. Then, the information processing device 100 corrects the estimated glucose concentration based on the concentration of the components added to the culture medium. In this way, the information processing device 100 can estimate the glucose concentration contained in the used culture medium with greater accuracy.

[0126] [8-8. Other Information Processing] Furthermore, the information processing device 100 may use blockchain technology to guarantee to the recipient that the instruction information is based on the provider's information. For example, the provider terminal 10, the recipient terminal 20, and the information processing device 100 may use a blockchain that shares the history of information processing performed by the information processing device 100. In this case, the recipient can confirm that the instruction information is based on the provider's information by checking the blockchain. The information processing using the blockchain described above can be realized by using conventional blockchain technologies.

[0127] Furthermore, the information processing device 100 may store past cell information and culture medium conditions. The information processing device 100 may also store previously estimated results of the state of used culture medium. For example, the information processing device 100 may suggest modifying the instruction content indicated by the instruction information based on previously estimated results and the currently estimated results.

[0128] To give a more specific example, suppose there is a difference in the concentration of components consumed between a past lot of used culture medium and the current lot of used culture medium. In this case, the information processing device 100 may suggest instruction information for supplementing or diluting components that differ from those indicated by previously estimated results among the components indicated by the currently estimated results.

[0129] This allows the information processing device 100 to generate suitable instruction information that compensates for the difference between past lots of used culture media and the current lot of used culture media.

[0130] [9. Effects] The information processing device 100 according to the embodiment has a processor that performs the following actions: receiving first cell information in which a part of the first cell information relating to cells cultured in a predetermined culture is concealed, or culture conditions in which a part of the culture conditions for a predetermined culture is concealed; estimating the state of the used culture medium after the predetermined culture has been performed based on the first cell information or culture conditions; and providing information regarding the state of the used culture medium to a recipient who will use the used culture medium.

[0131] As a result, the information processing device 100 according to the embodiment can provide appropriate information for effectively utilizing used culture media. For example, the information processing device 100 can efficiently utilize culture media that would otherwise be discarded after being used once, such as used culture media.

[0132] Furthermore, the information processing device 100 can prevent the leakage of highly confidential information from the provider while promoting the efficient reuse of used culture media. This allows the information processing device 100 to achieve both the avoidance of information leakage and the efficient utilization of used culture media.

[0133] Furthermore, in the information processing device 100 according to the embodiment, the processor further receives both partially concealed first cell information and partially concealed culture conditions, and estimates the state of the used culture medium based on both the first cell information and the culture conditions.

[0134] As a result, the information processing device 100 according to the embodiment can estimate the state of the used culture medium with greater accuracy.

[0135] Furthermore, in the information processing device 100 according to the embodiment, the processor receives first cell information in which information deemed highly confidential by the provider of used culture medium has been concealed, or culture conditions in which information deemed highly confidential by the provider has been concealed.

[0136] As a result, the information processing device 100 according to the embodiment can prevent the leakage of information deemed highly confidential by the provider, by concealing information that is deemed highly confidential.

[0137] Furthermore, in the information processing device 100 according to the embodiment, the processor receives post-processing information in which part of the post-processing information relating to post-processing performed on the used culture medium has been concealed, and estimates the state of the used culture medium based on at least one of the first cell information, culture conditions, and post-processing information.

[0138] Thus, the information processing device 100 according to this embodiment acquires not only cell information and culture medium conditions, but also post-processing information performed on the used culture medium. As a result, the information processing device 100 can estimate the state of the used culture medium with greater accuracy.

[0139] Furthermore, in the information processing device 100 according to the embodiment, the processor receives post-processing information in which information deemed highly confidential by the provider of the used culture medium has been concealed.

[0140] As a result, the information processing device 100 according to the embodiment can prevent the leakage of highly confidential information from the provider by concealing information that is deemed to be highly confidential even in post-processing information.

[0141] Furthermore, in the information processing device 100 according to the embodiment, the processor provides information regarding the components of the used culture medium as information regarding the state of the used culture medium.

[0142] As described above, the information processing device 100 according to this embodiment provides the recipient with information regarding the remaining components contained in the used culture medium. This allows the recipient to appropriately prepare the culture method to be used for reuse, as well as the reagents necessary for culture, taking into account the components contained in the used culture medium.

[0143] Furthermore, in the information processing device 100 according to the embodiment, the processor further generates instruction information relating to instructions for reusing the used culture medium based on the state of the used culture medium, and provides the instruction information to the recipient.

[0144] As a result, the information processing device 100 according to the embodiment can provide the recipient with the information necessary for reusing the used culture medium. For example, by referring to the instruction information, the recipient can understand what operations to perform on the used culture medium to efficiently culture the desired cells using the used culture medium.

[0145] Furthermore, in the information processing device 100 according to the embodiment, the processor provides, as instruction information, information regarding the culture method implemented by the recipient who reuses the used culture medium.

[0146] As a result, the information processing device 100 according to the embodiment can provide, for example, information regarding a culture method based on the components contained in the used culture medium.

[0147] Furthermore, in the information processing device 100 according to the embodiment, the processor receives information regarding the culture to be performed during reuse from a provider that reuses used culture media, and generates instruction information based on the culture information.

[0148] As a result, the information processing device 100 according to the embodiment can, for example, provide information on reagents and the like necessary for cultivation based on the cultivation performed by the recipient when reusing the product.

[0149] Furthermore, in the information processing device 100 according to the embodiment, the processor receives second cell information relating to the cells to be cultured during reuse as information relating to the culture to be performed during reuse, and generates instruction information based on the second cell information.

[0150] As a result, the information processing device 100 according to the embodiment can, for example, provide information on reagents and the like necessary for culture based on cell information used by the recipient when reusing the cells.

[0151] Furthermore, in the information processing device 100 according to the embodiment, the processor further receives information that the provider of used culture medium deems to be highly confidential, from among the first cell information relating to cells cultured in a predetermined culture, or information included in the culture conditions of a predetermined culture, and further performs the action of concealing the information that is deemed to be highly confidential.

[0152] As a result, the information processing device 100 according to the embodiment can prevent the leakage of information that is highly confidential to the provider.

[0153] Furthermore, in the information processing method according to the embodiment, the processor of the information processing device 100 receives first cell information in which a part of the first cell information relating to cells cultured in a predetermined culture is concealed, or culture conditions in which a part of the culture conditions for a predetermined culture is concealed, estimates the state of the used culture medium after the predetermined culture has been performed based on the first cell information or culture conditions, and performs a process to provide information regarding the state of the used culture medium to a recipient who will use the used culture medium.

[0154] As a result, the information processing method according to this embodiment can provide appropriate information for the effective utilization of used culture media. For example, the information processing method can efficiently utilize even culture media that would otherwise be discarded after being used once, such as used culture media.

[0155] Furthermore, the information processing method can prevent the leakage of highly confidential information from the provider while promoting the efficient reuse of used culture media. Thus, the information processing method can achieve both the avoidance of information leakage and the efficient utilization of used culture media.

[0156] Furthermore, in the information processing program according to the embodiment, the processor of the information processing device 100 receives first cell information in which a part of the first cell information relating to cells cultured in a predetermined culture is concealed, or culture conditions in which a part of the culture conditions for a predetermined culture is concealed, estimates the state of the used culture medium after the predetermined culture has been performed based on the first cell information or culture conditions, and executes a process to provide information regarding the state of the used culture medium to a recipient who will use the used culture medium.

[0157] As a result, the information processing program according to the embodiment can provide appropriate information for effectively utilizing used culture media. For example, the information processing program can efficiently utilize even culture media that would otherwise be discarded after being used once, such as used culture media.

[0158] Furthermore, the information processing program can prevent the leakage of highly confidential information from the provider while promoting the efficient reuse of used culture media. This allows the information processing program to achieve both the avoidance of information leakage and the efficient utilization of used culture media.

[0159] Furthermore, the information processing system 1 according to the embodiment includes a provider terminal 10 and an information processing device 100. The provider terminal 10 has a first processor that receives first cell information relating to cells cultured in a predetermined culture, or information included in the culture conditions of a predetermined culture, which the provider that provides used culture medium after a predetermined culture has been performed has determined to be highly confidential, and that conceals the information determined to be highly confidential. The information processing device 100 has a second processor that receives first cell information in which part of the first cell information has been concealed, or culture conditions in which part of the culture conditions has been concealed, estimates the state of the used culture medium after a predetermined culture has been performed based on the first cell information or culture conditions, and provides information regarding the state of the used culture medium to a recipient that uses the used culture medium.

[0160] As a result, the information processing system 1 according to this embodiment can provide appropriate information for effectively utilizing used culture media. For example, the information processing system 1 can efficiently utilize even culture media that would otherwise be discarded after being used once, such as used culture media.

[0161] Furthermore, the information processing system 1 can prevent the leakage of highly confidential information from the provider while promoting the efficient reuse of used culture media. In this way, the information processing system 1 can achieve both the avoidance of information leakage and the efficient use of used culture media.

[0162] [10. Hardware] Furthermore, examples of the hardware configurations of the provider terminal 10, the recipient terminal 20, and the information processing device 100 according to the above-described embodiment will be explained. Figure 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of the hardware configuration. Using Figure 9, the hardware configuration of the information processing device 100 will be explained as an example. As shown in Figure 9, the information processing device 100 has a communication device 6a, an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) 6b, memory 6c, and a processor 6d. In addition, each part shown in Figure 9 is interconnected by a bus or the like.

[0163] The communication device 6a communicates with external devices, etc. The HDD 6b stores programs and databases that operate the functions shown in Figure 6.

[0164] The processor 6d operates the processes that perform the functions described in Figure 6 by reading programs that perform the same processing as each processing unit shown in Figure 6 from the HDD 6b or the like and loading them into memory 6c. For example, this process performs the same functions as each processing unit of the information processing device 100. Specifically, the processor 6d executes processes that perform the same processing as the receiving unit 131, estimation unit 132, generation unit 133, providing unit 134, etc.

[0165] Thus, the information processing device 100 operates as an information processing device that performs an information provision method by reading and executing a program. Furthermore, the information processing device 100 can also achieve the same functionality as the embodiment described above by reading the program from the recording medium using a media reader and executing the read program.

[0166] Furthermore, the program referred to in these other embodiments is not limited to being executed by the information processing device 100. For example, this disclosure can be similarly applied when another computer or server executes the program, or when they cooperate to execute the program.

[0167] This program can be distributed via networks such as the Internet. Furthermore, this program can be recorded on computer-readable storage media such as hard disks, flexible disks (FDs), CD-ROMs, MOs (Magneto-Optical disks), and DVDs (Digital Versatile Discs), and executed by reading the program from these media using a computer.

[0168] [11. Other] Furthermore, among the processes described in the above embodiments and modifications, all or part of the processes described as being performed automatically can be performed manually, or all or part of the processes described as being performed manually can be performed automatically by known methods. In addition, the processing procedures, specific names, and information including various data and parameters shown in the above document and drawings can be changed at will unless otherwise specified. For example, the various information shown in each figure is not limited to the information shown.

[0169] Furthermore, the components of each illustrated device are functionally conceptual and do not necessarily need to be physically configured as shown. In other words, the specific forms of distribution and integration of each device are not limited to those shown, and all or part of them can be functionally or physically distributed and integrated in any unit according to various loads and usage conditions.

[0170] Furthermore, the embodiments and modifications described above can be combined as appropriate, provided that the processing content is not inconsistent.

[0171] Furthermore, some examples of combinations in the technology of this disclosure are described below.

[0172] (1) Acceptance of first cell information in which a portion of the first cell information relating to cells cultured in a specified culture is anonymized, or culture conditions in which a portion of the culture conditions for the specified culture is anonymized, Based on the first cell information or the culture conditions, estimate the state of the used culture medium after the predetermined culture has been performed, To provide the recipient of the used culture medium with information regarding the state of the used culture medium. An information processing device having a processor that performs the following.

[0173] (2) The processor is The system further accepts both the first cell information, which is partially concealed, and the culture conditions, which are also partially concealed. Based on both the first cell information and the culture conditions, the state of the used culture medium is estimated. (1) The information processing device described above.

[0174] (3) The processor is The provider of the used culture medium accepts the first cell information, in which information deemed highly confidential has been concealed, or the culture conditions, in which information deemed highly confidential by the provider has been concealed. The information processing device described in (1) or (2).

[0175] (4) The processor is Further receiving post-processing information, in which a portion of the post-processing information regarding the post-processing performed on the aforementioned used culture medium has been anonymized, The state of the used culture medium is estimated based on at least one of the first cell information, the culture conditions, and the post-processing information. An information processing device described in any one of (1) to (3).

[0176] (5) The processor is The provider of the used culture medium accepts the post-processing information, which has been anonymized to indicate that the information is highly confidential. (4) The information processing device described above.

[0177] (6) The processor is As information regarding the state of the used culture medium, information regarding the components of the used culture medium is provided. An information processing device described in any one of (1) to (5).

[0178] (7) The processor is Based on the state of the used culture medium, the process further generates instruction information relating to instructions for reusing the used culture medium. The instruction information is provided to the recipient. An information processing device described in any one of (1) to (6).

[0179] (8) The processor is The aforementioned instruction information provides information regarding the culture method implemented by the recipient who reuses the used culture medium. (7) The information processing device described above.

[0180] (9) The processor is We receive information regarding the culture process performed during reuse from the recipients who reuse the aforementioned used culture media. Based on the information regarding the culture, the instruction information is generated. The information processing device described in (7) or (8).

[0181] (10) The processor As information regarding the culture performed during the aforementioned reuse, second cell information concerning the cells to be cultured during the aforementioned reuse is received, Based on the second cell information, the instruction information is generated. (9) The information processing device described above.

[0182] (11) The processor is The provider of the used culture medium will further accept information that it deems to be highly confidential, which is first cell information relating to cells cultured in the predetermined culture, or information included in the culture conditions of the predetermined culture. Further actions are taken to conceal the information deemed to be highly confidential. An information processing device described in any one of (1) to (10).

[0183] (12) The processor of the information processing device The system accepts first cell information in which a portion of the first cell information relating to cells cultured in a specified culture is concealed, or culture conditions in which a portion of the culture conditions for the specified culture are concealed. Based on the first cell information or the culture conditions, the state of the used culture medium after the predetermined culture is performed is estimated. The information regarding the state of the used culture medium will be provided to the recipient who will be using the used culture medium. An information processing method that executes a process.

[0184] (13) The processor of the information processing device, The system accepts first cell information in which a portion of the first cell information relating to cells cultured in a specified culture is concealed, or culture conditions in which a portion of the culture conditions for the specified culture are concealed. Based on the first cell information or the culture conditions, the state of the used culture medium after the predetermined culture is performed is estimated. The information regarding the state of the used culture medium will be provided to the recipient who will be using the used culture medium. An information processing program used to execute a process.

[0185] (14) An information processing system having a provider terminal and an information processing device, The aforementioned provider terminal is The provider of the used culture medium after the predetermined culture has been performed will accept first cell information regarding cells cultured in a predetermined culture, or information included in the culture conditions of the predetermined culture, which the provider deems to be highly confidential. The aforementioned information deemed to be highly confidential will be kept secret. It has a first processor that executes, The aforementioned information processing device is Acceptance of the first cell information in which a portion of the first cell information is concealed, or the culture conditions in which a portion of the culture conditions is concealed, Based on the first cell information or the culture conditions, estimate the state of the used culture medium after the predetermined culture has been performed, To provide the recipient of the used culture medium with information regarding the state of the used culture medium. An information processing system having a second processor that performs the following.

[0186] Although some embodiments of the present application have been described in detail above with reference to the drawings, these are illustrative examples, and the apparatus and other devices of the present disclosure can be implemented in various modified and improved forms based on the knowledge of those skilled in the art, starting with the embodiments described in this section of the disclosure. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0187] N Network 1. Information Processing System 10. Source device 11 Communications Department 12 Storage section 13 Input section 14 Display section 15 Control Unit 16 Reception Department 17. Confidentiality Section 18 Transmitter 20 Recipient terminals 100 Information Processing Devices 110 Communications Department 120 Storage section 121 Culture medium information storage unit 130 Control Unit 131 Reception Department 132 Estimation Department 133 Generation part 134 Provision Department

Claims

1. Acceptance of first cell information in which a portion of the first cell information relating to cells cultured in a specified culture is anonymized, or culture conditions in which a portion of the culture conditions for the specified culture is anonymized, Based on the first cell information or the culture conditions, estimate the state of the used culture medium after the predetermined culture has been performed, To provide the recipient of the used culture medium with information regarding the state of the used culture medium. An information processing device having a processor that performs the following.

2. The aforementioned processor, The system further accepts both the first cell information, which is partially concealed, and the culture conditions, which are also partially concealed. Based on both the first cell information and the culture conditions, the state of the used culture medium is estimated. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.

3. The aforementioned processor, The provider of the used culture medium accepts the first cell information, in which information deemed to be highly confidential has been concealed, or the culture conditions, in which information deemed to be highly confidential has been concealed. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.

4. The aforementioned processor, Further receiving post-processing information, in which a portion of the post-processing information regarding the post-processing performed on the aforementioned used culture medium has been anonymized, The state of the used culture medium is estimated based on at least one of the first cell information, the culture conditions, and the post-processing information. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.

5. The aforementioned processor, The provider of the used culture medium accepts the post-processing information, which has been anonymized to indicate that the information is highly confidential. The information processing apparatus according to claim 4.

6. The aforementioned processor, As information regarding the state of the used culture medium, information regarding the components of the used culture medium is provided. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.

7. The aforementioned processor, Based on the state of the used culture medium, the process further generates instruction information relating to instructions for reusing the used culture medium. The instruction information is provided to the recipient. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.

8. The aforementioned processor, The aforementioned instruction information provides information regarding the culture method implemented by the recipient who reuses the used culture medium. The information processing apparatus according to claim 7.

9. The aforementioned processor, We receive information regarding the culture process performed during reuse from the recipients who reuse the aforementioned used culture media. Based on the information regarding the culture, the instruction information is generated. The information processing apparatus according to claim 7.

10. The aforementioned processor, As information regarding the culture performed during the aforementioned reuse, second cell information concerning the cells to be cultured during the aforementioned reuse is received, Based on the second cell information, the instruction information is generated. The information processing apparatus according to claim 9.

11. The aforementioned processor, The provider of the used culture medium will further accept first cell information relating to cells cultured in the predetermined culture, or information included in the culture conditions of the predetermined culture, which the provider of the used culture medium deems to be highly confidential. Further actions are taken to conceal the information deemed to be highly confidential. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.

12. The processor of the information processing device, The system accepts first cell information in which a portion of the first cell information relating to cells cultured in a specified culture is concealed, or culture conditions in which a portion of the culture conditions for the specified culture are concealed. Based on the first cell information or the culture conditions, the state of the used culture medium after the predetermined culture is performed is estimated. The information regarding the state of the used culture medium will be provided to the recipient who will be using the used culture medium. An information processing method that executes a process.

13. In the processor of the information processing device, The system accepts first cell information in which a portion of the first cell information relating to cells cultured in a specified culture is concealed, or culture conditions in which a portion of the culture conditions for the specified culture are concealed. Based on the first cell information or the culture conditions, the state of the used culture medium after the predetermined culture is performed is estimated. The information regarding the state of the used culture medium will be provided to the recipient who will be using the used culture medium. An information processing program used to execute a process.

14. An information processing system having a provider terminal and an information processing device, The aforementioned provider terminal is The provider of the used culture medium after the predetermined culture has been performed will accept first cell information regarding cells cultured in a predetermined culture, or information included in the culture conditions of the predetermined culture, which the provider deems to be highly confidential. The aforementioned information deemed to be highly confidential will be kept secret. It has a first processor that executes, The aforementioned information processing device is Acceptance of the first cell information in which a portion of the first cell information is concealed, or the culture conditions in which a portion of the culture conditions is concealed, Based on the first cell information or the culture conditions, estimate the state of the used culture medium after the predetermined culture has been performed, To provide the recipient of the used culture medium with information regarding the state of the used culture medium. An information processing system having a second processor that performs the following.

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