Until recently front Dura Ace hubs were not supposed to be radial laced. Only the latest model was designed for radial. I have used radial on pretty much everything and have had no issues. The only hubs I have ever seen split or have issues was 1) an American Classic cirac 1980 front hub (The tension on that was crazy high) and 2) a high flange campy hub that was in an accident. I am sure there have been others, but for the most part it is pretty safe.

As for it being a fad, I guess so, but I don't see this fad going away. Like Aerobars. People thought it was a fad 18ish years ago,... I still have one on my bike today.... but that is another thread where people can agree to disagree