The first one could be mitigated by providing an array of article pointers ([]*Article). That way, article.legs = 99 would work.
Else, the way mentioned in the article, or (&article).legs = 99 (ugly) would work. Take your pick.
Else, the way mentioned in the article, or (&article).legs = 99 (ugly) would work. Take your pick.
(&article).legs = 99
If they were already references as you first mention that way simply article.legs = 99 would work yes.