\(\operatorname{CAT(0)}\) cube complexes and asymptotically rigid mapping class groups (Q6961689)

Let \(A_{n,m}\) be a planar tree having one vertex of valence \(m\) and all others have valence \(n+1\). Embed \(A_{n,m}\) into the plane such that its vertex set is discrete and thicken it to get an arboreal surface. By deleting the vertices of \(A_{n,m}\) from this surface, one gets a punctured surface \({\mathscr S}^\sharp(A_{n,m})\). Dividing this surface into polygons in a certain way such that each polygon contains exactly one puncture in the interior gives a rigid structure on the surface \({\mathscr S}^\sharp(A_{n,m})\). An asymptotically rigid homeomorphism of \({\mathscr S}^\sharp(A_{n,m})\) is a self-homeomorphism of \({\mathscr S}^\sharp(A_{n,m})\) which respects the rigid structure almost everywhere. The asymptotically rigid mapping class group of \({\mathscr S}^\sharp(A_{n,m})\) is the group of isotopy classes of orientation-preserving asymptotically rigid homeomorphisms.\N\NAssociated to the surface \({\mathscr S}^\sharp(A_{n,m})\), there is a cube complex \({\mathscr C}(A_{n,m})\) on which the asymptotically rigid mapping class group acts. This paper shows that the cube complex \({\mathscr C}(A_{n,m})\) is CAT\((0)\) if and only if \(1\leq m\leq n+1\), answering a question by \textit{A. Genevois} et al. [Geom. Topol. 26, No. 3, 1385--1434 (2022; Zbl 1507.20022)]. For \(m\leq n\), other rigid structures and CAT\((0)\) cube complexes are constructed on which the asymptotically rigid mapping class group acts.