ok, i see your point but in fact the foliage IS the source of energy, which is then directed to new growth (tips and flowers).I applied this extreme defoliation because of the high temperatures we have here, also for the light penetration and last but not least to concentrate all the nutrients and the feeding stuff to where I need them to go, the top of the plant!
i don't think this defoliation results in much harm - still you got rid of some part of plant's source of energy.
but i understand the temp issue. in fact i think this is your biggest problem. maybe applying 2 inlets and 1 outlet would help.
but since you have 2 outlets already, i would rather advice to add 2 or 3 more inlets (passive will do - just make it lightproof). have you considered such a solution?
peace