How do I access a variable from a custom include?

[ScubaAddict]

Ok, I posted this question on vb.com, and after some research figured that this is the board with the smarter people So I figured it would be answered better here.

Here it is:

I am including a file into the member profile using the plugin system (ob_start()... etc).

The plugin works fine, except for one thing:

I can't figure out how to get the username variable of the profile being viewed.

For example, if you look at this page:
http://www.scubaaddict.com/scuba-forums/member.php?u=66

I have written a customization showing the articles written by that user.

Is there any way to get access to the $vbulletin->userinfo['username'] and have the value be that user (mcm007)?

Whenever I try to access that variable from my include, it shows my username (Addict) - even though the exact same code in the template shows produces 'mcm007'.

Currently, I am snagging the uid from the Querystring and getting the username by using that uid in a query - problem is that if you access the same profile in a different manner, that querystring parameter is not available.

Does anyone know how I can use this variable like I want to? or can point me to a place that has a more detailed explanation of how to use the variables in the templates?

TIA - Addict