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Low-coherence interferometry (LCI) allows high-resolution volumetric imaging of tissue morphology and provides localized optical properties that can be related to the physiological status of tissue. This chapter discusses the combination of spatial and spectroscopic information by means of spectroscopic OCT (sOCT) and low-coherence spectroscopy (LCS). We describe the theory behind these modalities for the assessment of spatially resolved optical absorption and (back)scattering coefficient spectra. These spectra can be used for the highly localized quantification of chromophore concentrations and assessment of tissue organization on (sub)cellular scales. This leads to a wealth of potential clinical applications, ranging from neonatology for the determination of billibrubin concentrations, to oncology for the optical assessment of the aggressiveness of a cancerous lesion

Salvaging burned human remains can be a challenging task for the forensic specialists, and interpreting evidence from thermally altered skeletal elements can be difficult. Based on the results presented in this dissertation more is possible than was previously known. In this dissertation, novel ways of finding and analyzing burned human remains are presented to the field of forensic anthropology.This thesis introduces new methods to collect and differentiate cremated bone from construction debris from a fire scene, and estimate the exposure temperature that bones have been exposed to – which is important for forensic investigation. Further, this dissertation provides the reader with new knowledge on heat induced biophysical changes and characteristics that aids the interpretation of skeletal damage that occurred before, during or after the fire. It is important for new methods in forensic practice to comply with legal standards. Accordingly, the value of the presented methods for practice in both the field and the courtroom are thoroughly discussed to inform both the forensic practitioner as well as the legal experts.