grabbed that one yesterday but really, if you aren't gonna damage the tree, its in... especially in alpine... usually it is in the way and getting around it without touching it makes it harder and contrived... like saying certain holds are 'out' on a sport climb... but if possible i try not to, but if it is there, the temptation can be great especially if you are gripped.
I think by this logic, pulling on gear would also be considered "in."
Trees are definitely aid.
I call bullshit because you should climb and approach something like Calculus Crack or St Vitus Dance approach. Via 5.7 "tree" climbing as noted in the guidebook. Or even try Mt Index for instance.