A device for use with a memory cross-point array of elements, each of which comprises a selection device in series with a state-holding device, in one embodiment includes a controller, configured to apply at least one voltage and/or current pulse to a selected one or more of the elements, said selected one or more of the elements including a partially- or completely-shorted selection device, so that said partially- or completely-shorted selection device passes enough current so as to damage its corresponding state-holding device and place said corresponding state-holding device in a highly resistive state, while any other selection device that is not partially- or completely-shorted passes less current so that the state-holding device corresponding to said other selection device remains unaffected. Additional systems and methods are also presented.