Recently of the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC), where he worked in media and public relations, Mr. Jay Walsh was announced as the replacement for Sandy Ordonez as the communications officer for the Wikimedia Foundation on an internal mailing list on Tuesday, 8 January. "I'm extremely grateful for [Sandy Ordonez's] hard work and excellent judgement," said Sue Gardner, Executive Director of Wikimedia Foundation, in her announcement. Ordonez managed the WMF's public and media relations from January 2007, and will stay on in Florida until the end of the month when the Tampa office is closed.
Can we say the following?
Sandy Ordonez was replaced by Jay Walsh.

yes

Following a steady flow of leaks and statements on apparently incriminating discoveries, her office has been gagged by senior legal authorities.
Can we say the following?
Because of leaks, a gag was placed on Holland's office.

no

With the publication of Sophie's World in 1991, Gaarder gained international fame. Sophie's World spent three years as the best selling book in Norway. His first book to be translated into English, Sophie's World was also the top-selling book in Germany, France, and Great Britain.
Can we say the following?
Sophie's World is a best seller.

yes

Nike Inc. said, Monday, that its first-quarter profit grew 32 percent, as the world's largest sneaker and athletic apparel company posted broad gains in sales and orders.
Can we say the following?
Nike said that orders for delivery were up 11 percent from a year earlier, and it was optimistic about its growth prospects.
no