Also

* Footwear maker Skechers USA Inc. said its third-quarter profit doubled because of improved sales and managed costs. The Manhattan Beach-based company’s net income jumped to $12.6 million, or 30 cents a share, compared with $6 million, or 15 cents, in the same period last year. Earnings were in line with Wall Street’s expectations. Sales rose 5.9% to $272.8 million.

* 21st Century Insurance Group reported net income of $21.1 million, or 25 cents a share, in the third quarter, compared with $24.6 million, or 29 cents, for the same period last year. The Woodland Hills company said it had direct premiums of $349.1 million, up nearly 1% from $346 million in the third quarter of 2004. 21st Century shares added 9 cents to $15.79.