Neural Feedback Optimization Theory

NFOT proposes the Write-Back Gap L — the trial-level interval between a prespecified biological event t₀ and the completion of feedback t_fb — as a measurable variable in closed-loop systems. The paper states a falsifiable predictive hypothesis and a stronger causal hypothesis, specifies a preregistered experimental protocol (PTSP), and reports a preliminary observational analysis of 444 trials from bigP3BCI Study M. No numerical constant is claimed; no functional form is derived; no simulation output is presented as evidence.