[R-meta] Can random-effects answer research questions in meta-analysis?

[Luke Martinez]

Hello Friends,

We often only use estimates of fixed-effects to answer one or more research
questions in a meta-analysis.

But is it also possible to specify one or more random effects to actually
answer one or more research questions in a meta-analysis?

If yes, then, which of the following should be a *priority* when fitting a
model:

(A) Specifying one or more random effects based on the research questions?
OR
(B) Specifying one or more random effects based on the fit of the model to
the data?

By *priority*, I mean deciding what to do when there is a conflict between
the above choices (e.g., A is desired, but B gives the superior fit).

Many thanks for sharing your insights,
Luke

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