Windows 7 Ultimate X64 Won't Open Any 32 Bit Programs?

My Windows 7 Ultimate 64 bit does not seem to open any 32 bit programs. When I try to open a 32 bit program, it shows up in the task manager for a few seconds (e.g. "firefox.exe x32"), then disappears after a few seconds. I can open Internet Explorer 64 bit fine, run it with no programs, but the 32 bit version doesn't work.I also can't access many of the Windows control panel settings, such as "Uninstall Programs." I can open the Control Panel folder, but when I double click on the items inside: nothing.Background: My wife decided it was a good idea to download and run a program she received in an email from a stranger and let it bypass our Avast antivirus SuperAntiSpyware, Trend Micro Housecall, and Microsoft Security Essentials; also CCleaner, and a few other similar utilities (finding and deleting many items.) I feel fairly confident (not 100%) that there are no viruses/malware left, but either they screwed something up, or my efforts to subsequently clean the computer up did.ow I booted into safe mode once or twice, and was able to run 32 bit programs! But now I can't do that anymore: Both regular and safe-mode boots result in the same problem.