Square nearly nonpositive sign pattern matrices (Q5935359)

Irreducible square nearly nonpositive (SNNP) matrices \(A\) are considered. The maximum (or minimum) number of negative entries that can occur in \(A^2\) \((A^2\) is a generalized sign pattern) when \(A\) is SNNP are found. The sign patterns that achieve this maximum (or minimum) number are characterized. Properties of eigenvalues of sign pattern which are composite or square nearly composite are discussed.