According to the U.S. Federal Research Misconduct Policy, fabrication involves:

Fabrication refers specifically to the act of making up data or results and recording them as though they are genuine. This definition is aligned with the U.S. Federal Research Misconduct Policy, which highlights the importance of integrity in research processes. When researchers fabricate information, they undermine the foundation of scientific inquiry, which relies on accurate reporting and honest representation of data.

The choice that describes fabrication accurately reflects a serious violation of research ethics, as it involves inventing information that misleads other researchers, funding agencies, and the public. Each party relies on the honesty of the data presented to advance knowledge and make informed decisions based on that research.

In contrast to this, the other options refer to practices that may not constitute outright fabrication. Altering data to match results may denote a form of manipulation but isn't the same as creating data that never existed. Engaging in peer review is a standard part of the research process and does not relate to the integrity of data itself. Lastly, using published data in research is a common and acceptable practice both in citation and building upon existing knowledge, provided that the appropriate permissions and attributions are made.