Before publication in a reputable journal, the findings of a research study must undergo scrutiny by experts in the field in a process known as

The answer is peer review.

Explanation:

Peer review refers to the evaluation made by one or more people that have common competences concerning a specific work. It is considered self-regulation made by qualified members of a specific profession who are involved in an important field.

The different methods concerning peer review are utilized to keep quality standards, improve performance, as well as provide credibility. Categorization of a peer review can be made according to the type of activity, as well as the field or profession through which the activity is done.  

depends on what they need

the answer is b, encourage free trade