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.  

the answer is:

c. economic output