Spalted wood is wood that has been infiltrated by "waves" of decay, with each wave leaving a uniquely outlined stain-zone line.

NPR: Excerpt: 'A Splintered History Of Wood'

Investors are also weighing the prospects for an interest-rate cut or other action by European Central Bank officials scheduled to meet Thursday, following another wave of disappointing economic data from the euro zone in recent days.

WSJ: Stocks Close Narrowly Mixed