feedback

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feedback (feed-bak) n. the coupling of the output of a process to the input. Feedback mechanisms are important in regulating many physiological processes; for example, the output of hormones and neurotransmitters. negative f. a mechanism in which high levels of a substance (e.g. a circulating hormone) inhibit a further increase in its production (e.g. by reducing production of its releasing factors). positive f. a mechanism in which a rise in the output of a substance is associated with an increase in the output of another substance.

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