I would love to read the article if you should come across it!  I have often heard of this technique, but have never gotten the details.  I have, on occasion attempted to use the Darken and Lighten layers built into the presets, but they have never been satisfactory for me, they seem to just either muddy it up or wash it out.  I am really interested in having more control right in UF.  I am currently taking my images to Fireworks to brighten, contrast, add a signature and resize, then unsharp mask.  It would be easier just to resize, USM and add the signature, lol!  Mostly they seem to need the contrast boosted.

Fractals will always amaze me!