Disappearing files

[TheMacintoshLady]

In the last few days I have had whole folders disappear from the desktop 
but the title remains. I can still click them open and find what is 
inside but at a loss as to how to make them show up again.

Also, I had one folder of files suddenly take on the icon of Simple Text 
from OS 9. One of my DVD project icons is now sporting the icon of a 
total inappropriate program as well.

What is the equivalent of rebuilding the desktop on X?
I have run the daily, weekly, monthly and permissions UNIX fixes EVERY 
DAY.
Does this actually reconnect icons with their data? This fix was simple 
in OS 9.
What can I do right now to fix this icon anomaly?
No line commands please!