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Which of the following does NOT innervate viscera via the parasympathetic nervous system?
Superior cervical ganglia
Vagus nerve
Pelvic splanchnic nerves
Glossopharyngeal nerve
The correct answer is: Superior cervical ganglia
The correct answer is that the superior cervical ganglia do not innervate viscera via the parasympathetic nervous system. The superior cervical ganglia are part of the sympathetic nervous system, which primarily innervates structures in the head and neck, including blood vessels, sweat glands, and muscles of the eye. In contrast, the vagus nerve, pelvic splanchnic nerves, and glossopharyngeal nerve are all associated with parasympathetic innervation. The vagus nerve plays a crucial role in parasympathetic outflow, affecting organs such as the heart, lungs, and digestive tract. Pelvic splanchnic nerves innervate pelvic organs, including the bladder and intestines, contributing to parasympathetic control in that region. The glossopharyngeal nerve, while primarily known for sensory functions, also carries parasympathetic fibers to the parotid gland and other structures, thereby influencing glandular activity. Thus, the distinction lies in the fact that the superior cervical ganglia are not involved in parasympathetic innervation, whereas the other nerves listed are directly responsible for autonomic functions in the viscera.