<p>Slow cortical potentials are negative or positive polarizations of the (EEG) (or magnetic field changes in the magnetoencephalogram (MEG)) that last from 300 ms to several seconds.&nbsp; Functionally, they constitute a threshold regulation mechanism for
    local excitatory mobilization (negative slow potentials) or inhibition (positive slow potentials) of cortical networks. SCPs reflect the depolarization of large cortical cell assemblies, reducing their excitation threshold. Slow cortical potentials
    bind networks (this is the binding frequency of consciousness, not gamma—gamma is the by-product of being bound).</p>
<p>Glia generate direct current and slow cortical potentials. Glia are thought to be responsible for the hemodynamics in the brain and this is where bold sugar (glucose) is metabolized. Glucose comes from the Greek word for "sweet." When you metabolize blood
    sugar (glucose), you create the by-product of bi-carbonate ions (a form of carbon dioxide, also known as HCO3) in the blood, which generates an electro-negative charge. Your blood brings bicarbonate to your lungs, and then it is exhaled as carbon
    dioxide. Your kidneys also help regulate bicarbonate. Bicarbonate is excreted and reabsorbed by your kidneys. This regulates your body's pH, or acid balance. Bicarbonate also works with sodium, potassium, and chloride, also called electrolytes. These
    are usually measured at the same time as bicarbonate.</p>
<p><span style="font-size: 1rem;">DC fields in the EEG correspond to intention and attention (i.e. what is deemed salient). The DC field potentials in the brain area to wiggle your fingers would cause those areas of the brain to light up. You have between 10-100 glia for every neuron. Glia have many roles, as will be covered in Chapter 4: Basic Neurophysiology and Neuroanatomy. But, suffice it to say, glia are foremost know in acting like scaffolding for each neuron.&nbsp;</span><br></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img src="@@PLUGINFILE@@/neuron-scaffolding.png" alt="Times" width="307" height="258" class="img-responsive atto_image_button_text-bottom"><br></p>