Crossword Genius

How Helmholtz liked being brought chemists' notes and other such principles! (8)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

elements

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'principles' is the definition.
(I have seen 'First principles ' mean 'elements' so perhaps 'principles' could also mean 'elements')

I can't explain the remainder of the clue.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for elements that I've seen before include "Basic principles of the weather" , "fire and water, say" , "Fire, air, earth, water" , "Components or weather conditions" , "Atmospheric forces like wind and rain" .)

I've seen this clue in The Telegraph.
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