Also

* DaVita Inc., which operates kidney dialysis centers, said third-quarter profit rose 72%, boosted by sharply higher revenue and a one-time gain.

Net income climbed to $94.9 million, or 90 cents a share, from $55.2 million, or 53 cents, a year earlier. Revenue for the El Segundo company nearly doubled to $1.24 billion.

* Ceradyne Inc., a Costa Mesa maker of high-tech ceramic parts used in armor, missiles and diesel engines, said profit nearly tripled in the third quarter because of military demand for its body armor products.

Net income increased to $36.9 million, or $1.34 a share, from $13.3 million, or 53 cents, a year earlier. Sales nearly doubled to $185.8 million.

* Guitar Center Inc. reported a 22% drop in the third quarter because of soft same-store sales and higher promotional costs.

The Westlake Village-based retailer said net income was $11.3 million, or 38 cents a share, compared with $14.4 million, or 51 cents, a year earlier. Sales rose 12% to $472.2 million.