Can you convert the number zero(0) into a positive number using just one mathematical operator ?

There are forty elephants and they have forty-fore heads. How can this be possible?

Count the number of squares in the picture below.

Decode below three cipher riddles:

26 L of the A
7 D of the W
1000 Y in a M

A man is found dead in his bathroom naked with blood scattered all around him. The bathroom was locked from the inside and there is no trace of any struggle. There is nothing in the bathroom except his pant with the belt still around and his shirt. Also, the medic team can't find any incision in his body that may have been the reason behind so much blood loss.

The Police department is clueless regarding this murder mystery.
Can you?

What is next number in the pattern below:

131 517 192 123 ?

Joseph organises an exotic office New year party at the beach to his important fellow employees.

Following are the important people that will come to the party

1. Joseph

2. Joseph 2 girlfriends- Carol Vanstone and Tracey Hughes

3. The sales head Clay Vanstone.

4. Clay Vanstone 2 associates.

5. Mr. Jeremy and his Secret Tab.

They all need to cross a small river to reach the beach, however, Joseph has got just one boat.

There are few rules for crossing the river.

1. The capacity of the boat is limited to just two people.

2. Clay Vanstone associates will not stay with Joseph without Clay Vanstone.

3. Carol Vanstone and Tracey Hughes will not stay with the Clay Vanstone without Joseph.

4. Mr. Jeremy would never leave the Secret Tab alone.

5. Secret Tab counts as a person.

6. Only Joseph, Clay Vanstone or Mr. Jeremy can drive the boat.

7. The two girlfriends Carol Vanstone and Tracey Hughes will not stay with the Clay Vanstone without Joseph.

8. No Associates would stay with Joseph without their Clay Vanstone.

9. Mr.Jeremy will not leave the Secret Tab alone.

How many pluses should we put between the digits of 987654321 to get a total of 99, and where?

There was a minor accident with a doctor's son but the doctor noticed no major injury. After the treatment, the father of that doctors son is sitting with the son of the doctor without the doctor being in the room.

How can this be possible?

I am taken from a mine and shut up in a wooden case, from which I am never released, and yet I am used by almost every person. What am I?