The example rule transforms the numbers in a non-standard way. Let's examine the first equation carefully:

$9981 + 1601 = 2957$

If we analyze the digits of $9981$, $1601$, and $2957$, we may notice the following pattern:

• $9981$: digits are $9, 9, 8, 1$

• $1601$: digits are $1, 6, 0, 1$

• Adding corresponding digits:

  • $9 + 1 = 10$, only the last digit $0$ is kept.
  • $9 + 6 = 15$, keep the last digit $5$.
  • $8 + 0 = 8$, keep $8$.
  • $1 + 1 = 2$, keep $2$.

  Hence, we get $0582$, but the result is $2957$, so it seems there's no clear digit-wise addition pattern, indicating a non-standard operation.

Now, for the second equation $1080 + 9168 = ?$, if we assume the same transformation is applied, the result is not predictable from standard arithmetic. Based on the unconventional rule in the example, the result could be another arbitrary number.

Thus, without knowing the exact rule, we can't deduce the result confidently, but based on the nature of the example, we would expect the second result to be similarly transformed and arbitrary. Would you like me to apply some potential transformations or patterns?

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Here are five related questions:

1. What specific rule can be derived from these transformations?
2. Can you find another pattern between the given numbers?
3. How would this change if we modified only one number in the pair?
4. Does this remind you of any common puzzles?
5. How can we systematically identify the rule?

Tip: In puzzles, sometimes rules aren't arithmetic but involve patterns like digit manipulation or encoding.